And his impressive progress has got Joe Jordan singing his praises.

The Croatian star has been out for the last seven weeks following surgery on damaged ligaments in his right ankle.

But he has now spent the past week running outside as his anticipated end-of-the-month return approaches ever close.

For first-team coach Jordan, it's a fight for fitness worth applauding.
And he has been swift to hail the determination of Kranjcar.

He said: 'Niko is looking lean after being out for quite a period of time.

'It's difficult with the injury he had to get him working but we have.

'He's worked himself under supervision and guidance and he is looking good in the respect of where he is at this stage.'

Meanwhile, Pompey have fresh concerns over Sean Davis ahead of the Villa trip.

The midfielder trained yesterday – but afterwards complained of a slight back problem.

Lassana Diarra (knee) and Richard Hughes (groin) are already struggling to take their places in the Pompey engine room.

Now they have been joined by the rejuvenated Davis, although Jordan is hopeful all three can still figure at Villa Park on Saturday.

He added: 'We have one or two little knocks, especially in central midfield, it's something we need to assess.

'Sean Davis trained yesterday but had a little problem with his back. He's had a reaction.

'Lassie came back yesterday and the physios are looking at the scans that have been taken. They will be assessed.

'Hopefully we can get Richard Hughes off the treatment table, too.'