Pompey boss silent on injury issues

Boss Paul Cook is remaining tight-lipped over Pompey's injury situation ahead of the trip to Stevenage.
Kal Naismith in action for Pompey against Grimsby on Tuesday night Picture: Joe PeplerKal Naismith in action for Pompey against Grimsby on Tuesday night Picture: Joe Pepler
Kal Naismith in action for Pompey against Grimsby on Tuesday night Picture: Joe Pepler

The Blues manager opted for tactical silence when quizzed on the availability of Kal Naismith and Kyle Bennett.

Cook is keen to keep the injury progress of the in-form duo under wraps as his side prepare to take on Borough tomorrow.

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Bennett turned his ankle during the 4-0 victory against Grimsby, with the problem forcing him off on the stroke of half-time.

As for Naismith, he sustained a hamstring issue in the second half of Tuesday night’s impressive display, also prompting his withdrawal.

In addition, there are other injury concerns following a hectic period of fixtures.

But Cook is giving nothing away.

He said: ‘I’m not talking about injuries because I don’t want Stevenage to know!

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‘We’re just going to keep everything close to our chest, although have quite a few bumps, bruises and different knocks.

‘We’ve probably got two or three lads nursing knocks which might keep them out.

People automatically think it’ll be Bennett, Naismith or whoever, but there might be one or two that would surprise people. They’ve been carrying a bit of stuff, so we’ve just got to be careful.

‘Kyle declared himself fit on Tuesday afternoon, he was under no pressure to play against Grimsby.

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‘We’ve got a good squad and the reason why is the size of the club and the backing I’ve received.

‘So if one or two have to come out, it just gives other good players the opportunity.

‘There’ll be no excuses from us, none at all.

‘I am comfortable making changes with injuries and if pitches aren’t what they should be.’