Portsmouth boss reveals why he could spring a selection surprise in crucial Oxford United showdown

Kenny Jackett revealed he’s wary of the impact of a near four-month halt to competitive action on his preferred starting XI.
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And the Pompey boss is ready to spring a selection surprise against Oxford United if he believes a fringe squad member has returned sharper and fresher for the play-offs.

Jackett admitted he’s been keeping a close eye on patterns emerging from games so far, since football’s restart after the suspension amid the coronavirus pandemic.

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But he acknowledged of far greater concern is the intensity his own options are working at since their preparations to reach the Championship began in earnest.

The Blues boss appeared to have preferred options in many areas of the pitch before their season came to a standstill after playing Fleetwood on March 10.

Bryn Morris has now come back into the fray, Paul Downing has been out of favour for much of the season and Brett Pitman has been away from the training ground.

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Jackett now has to decide whether the substantial period away from competitive action has changed the pecking order in any areas of the pitch.

Bryn Morris being back on the training pitch with his team-mates will provide a welcome boost to manager Kenny Jackett.  Picture: Habibur RahmanBryn Morris being back on the training pitch with his team-mates will provide a welcome boost to manager Kenny Jackett.  Picture: Habibur Rahman
Bryn Morris being back on the training pitch with his team-mates will provide a welcome boost to manager Kenny Jackett. Picture: Habibur Rahman

He said: ‘The biggest thing is assessing your own squad.

‘Yes, you’re always looking for that little edge and are things slightly different. Is it a different type of football?

‘How does the multi-ball system work? How does the lack of crowd affect it? What are the refereeing decisions like? Are they as biased towards the home side as before?

‘It’s all of those things but, really, you're looking at how your own players are performing after four months off? Are they the same or are there people performing better in the squad? That’s the biggest thing we’re all looking at.’

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