Portsmouth have received a timely boost on the injury front with key defender Regan Poole edging closer to a return ahead of their Championship fixture against Derby County next week.
The 27-year-old centre-back has missed the Blues’ last three matches with an ankle problem picked up in training before last week’s abandoned game at Charlton Athletic. Initial concerns over the issue saw Poole sent for a scan, raising fears he could be sidelined for an extended period.
However, manager John Mousinho has confirmed that Poole has stepped up his recovery and is now back out on the training pitch, with a chance of featuring against Derby if all goes well. “Regan’s back out running. He will probably be back for Derby,” Mousinho said in an interview on BBC Radio Solent, while adding that Poole was not yet ready to kick a ball in training.
Poole had been an ever-present in Portsmouth’s league campaign prior to his injury, starting every minute for the club before being forced out. His return would provide a much-needed reinforcement to a defence that has been stretched in recent matches, with center-backs Hayden Matthews and Ibane Bowat deputising in his absence.
Mousinho also provided updates on fellow defender Josh Knight, who continues to be monitored as he deals with a back issue. Unlike Poole, Knight’s timeline for a return remains uncertain, with the coaching staff adopting a cautious approach.
Portsmouth’s recent injury problems come amid a crucial run of fixtures as the club look to climb away from the bottom end of the Championship table. A positive performance against Derby could offer momentum ahead of a busy festive period.
Derby — promoted alongside Portsmouth from League One last season — are set to travel to Fratton Park looking to build on recent results. The match represents another important opportunity for both sides as they navigate the challenges of their first campaign back in the second tier.
