Pompey striker set for Hawks comeback

Conor Chaplin, left, celebrates Pompey League Two title win with Kyle Bennett

And newcomer Tareiq Holmes-Dennis has pinpointed Saturday’s friendly as his Pompey bow.

Chaplin was absent from last weekend’s pre-season opener at Salisbury with a calf problem collected in training.

In his absence, Kal Naismith was pushed into a lone striking role during the first half of the 3-0 victory, with Nicke Kabamba replacing him after the break.

However, Kenny Jackett anticipates the youngster returning to action at Westleigh Park on Saturday.

Summer recruit Nathan Thompson also has a chance of featuring as he recovers from a foot injury sustained at the end of last week.

But Michael Smith is expected to miss several weeks through his ankle issue.

Jackett said: ‘Conor is okay, he’s fit and available for Saturday.

‘With Nathan, we are hoping and just looking at him at the moment. But he should be okay for Havant.’

Meanwhile, Holmes-Dennis yesterday trained with his new team-mates for the first time following his switch.

The left-back has signed on a season-long loan from Huddersfield and will compete with Brandon Haunstrup for a spot.

However, he admits he is playing catch up, with the Blues having already been in training for six days.

He said: ‘My first training session was a good one, but the lads have already been in for a week.

‘That was my first session back from the off-season so it was difficult getting up to speed, but I will get there and be ready for the season.

‘Hopefully, I’ll feature on Saturday, although I’m not sure how long I will play.’