Portsmouth boss optimistic over striker's Shrewsbury involvementÂ

Pompey are optimistic Oli Hawkins will be fit for face Shrewsbury Town on Saturday.Â
By The Newsroom
Published 6th Sep 2018, 14:27 BST
Updated 6th Sep 2018, 14:32 BST
Oli Hawkins is withdrawn in the first half against Plymouth. Picture: Joe PeplerOli Hawkins is withdrawn in the first half against Plymouth. Picture: Joe Pepler
Oli Hawkins is withdrawn in the first half against Plymouth. Picture: Joe Pepler

The striker limped out in the first half of last weekend's 3-0 victory over Plymouth with a hamstring injury.

After a scan on Monday, Hawkins was left out of the Blues' squad for their 4-0 Checkatrade Trophy victory against Gillingham a day later.

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But the Dagenham & Redbridge marksman trained this morning ahead of the Shrews' visit to Fratton Park.

Oli Hawkins is withdrawn in the first half against Plymouth. Picture: Joe PeplerOli Hawkins is withdrawn in the first half against Plymouth. Picture: Joe Pepler
Oli Hawkins is withdrawn in the first half against Plymouth. Picture: Joe Pepler

And boss Kenny Jackett is hopeful Hawkins will be involved in the game.

He said: '˜Hawkins trained this morning and looks okay, so I'm optimistic for the weekend.

'˜Hopefully he is alright.'

However, Jack Whatmough (hamstring) and Anton Walkes (groin) will miss Saturday's clash.

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The pair came off injured at half-time against Plymouth and are both set for a short spell on the sidelines. 

The manager added: '˜Anton Walkes and Whatmough will take a little bit longer.

'˜I think, possibly, the week after next for them.'

Pompey will also be without Ronan Curtis against Shrewsbury after he was called-up for Republic of Ireland under-21 duty. 

Related topics:BluesPortsmouthKenny JackettPlymouthJack Whatmough