Danny Cowley delivers positive Jordy Hiwula injury update as Portsmouth striker closes in on return

Danny Cowley revealed the striker's progressing well from his ankle injury and may be back for Accrington's trip to Fratton Park on the final day.

Hiwula has been sidelined for the past month, leaving the Blues short of number-nine options for the business end of the campaign.

With Ellis Harrison (knee) ruled out for the rest of the term, John Marquis has been the Blues' solitary senior centre-forward for the past seven games.

Cowley had initially thought Hiwula would not play again in the regular season but could be available if Pompey reach the play-offs.

However, the former Coventry man could be back for the visit of Accrington on May 9.

Head coach Cowley said: ‘The medical staff Bobby (Bacic) and Jack (Hughes) are doing everything they can to accelerate the process.

‘Jordy is working really hard, relentlessly hard and we're hopeful we'll get him back before the end of the full season.

‘Hopefully, he'll be back for Accrington in the last game, all going well. He's back on the grass at a low level.’

Hiwula signed for Pompey in October after being a free agent throughout the summer following his release from Coventry.

He’s scored three goals in 14 appearances, having served as third-choice striker behind Marquis and Harrison.

Hiwula’s Blues deal expires at the season’s end and might be eyeing a move elsewhere for more regular action.

However, Cowley heaped praise on how the England youth international isn’t being ‘selfish’ and is desperate to return to fitness.

Cowley added: ‘He's a great kid. I really like him, he's really fun and got loads of energy.

‘He's missing football and wants to get back. The fact he's out of contract and wants to get back says everything to me.

‘Jordy could have looked after himself and been selfish by protecting his injury but he wants to get back.’