Portsmouth boss Danny Cowley allays Ben Close injury fears ahead of huge Accrington game

The midfielder was substituted in the 89th minute at AFC Wimbledon yesterday and replaced by Andy Cannon.

It came after the 24-year-old was seen sat on the ground requiring assistance as the Blues homed in on an important win at Plough Lane.

Close, who has started nine of Cowley’s 11 games in charge after being largely overlooked by previous boss Kenny Jackett this season, suffered a groin injury last month.

It saw him miss the defeat at MK Dons, but he’s been an ever presence since, becoming a key player in Pompey’s push for the play-offs.

Concerns were raised that he might not be available for next Sunday’s season finale against Accy – a game the Blues will most likely need to win in order to extend their season.

However, Cowley quickly dismissed those fears, insisting Close was just feeling the affects of another tough contest.

The head coach told BBC Solent: ‘It’s just tiredness and fatigue.

‘He probably made so many hundred passes today, which was great.’

SEE ALSO: How Pompey's win at Wimbledon puts them back in play-off control

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