Painter injury blow for Pompey

The former Brighton man hobbled out of the action in the 75th minute of Saturday’s 2-2 draw with Mansfield.

Yassin Moutaouakil was brought on as substitute, with Joe Devera switching over to left-back.

The Field Mill fixture was Painter’s second appearance since joining the Blues as a free agent.

Now he has been sidelined with a problem which is expected to keep him out for around a fortnight.

It once again raises the left-back issue which has proven to be such a talking point so early in the season.

Dan Butler started the campaign in the role.

He had impressed in the second half of last season to make the place his own.

But the 19-year-old was dropped after just two games, following some disappointing early performances.

Initially, Danny East took the spot, slotting in for the 2-2 draw at Accrington.

That was only his second-ever appearance in the role, usually operating at right-back or in midfield during his young career.

Then Painter arrived on trial at Fratton Park and was snapped up having caught the eye in training.

The 27-year-old helped Whittingham’s side to a clean sheet in the 3-0 victory over Morecambe.

He won praise from the Blue boss.

Painter retained his spot for the trip to Mansfield – only to suffer injury.

That leaves Butler or East in the frame for the visit of Chesterfield this weekend.

However, Whittingham also remains keen on recruiting Shaun Cooper, who started four matches at left-back for the Blues last season.