Portsmouth pencil in pre-season friendly plans as players prepare to return

Kenny Jackett’s players return to training on Monday, signifying the start of summer preparation.

The timing of pre-season has been pushed back a month, the inevitable consequence following the coronavirus crisis.

However, despite that date change, it will be business as usual for the Blues as they work towards the September 12 kick-off for League One.

Jackett’s troops are being lined-up with 4-5 friendly fixtures, all of which will take place in England.

Mark Catlin had previously ruled out the customary tour abroad, which in recent summers has involved the Republic of Ireland.

Instead, Pompey are in the process of arranging a week’s training at a location in England, which is likely to consist of playing nearby opposition in friendly action.

However, the traditional pre-season friendly with the Hawks will not be taking place, with Westleigh Park out of action through the laying of a 3G pitch.

Work is also presently being carried out on Fratton Park’s pitch to ensure it continues to meet its excellent condition of recent years.

As a result, one home friendly has been pencilled in and is expected to be the final Saturday before the September 12 start.

The Blues have long favoured hosting one pre-season friendly, which usually represents their final summer fixture.

However, extensive work on the Fratton Park pitch last summer meant all five first-team matches were played away from home.

In addition, there were three Pompey XI fixtures, also on their travels.

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