Portsmouth training ground reopens to boost hopes of fulfilling League One clash

Kenny Jackett’s men today resumed group training ahead of the January 2 trip to Accrington – their next fixture.

However, the five players who tested positive for the pandemic will not be back until they have carried out a period of 10 days of self-isolation.

Jack Whatmough will be the first to return, having first felt symptoms on December 18.

Although it is unclear when the remaining four, who have not been named, will rejoin their team-mates.

Regardless, those members of Jackett’s squad given the coronavirus all-clear are this morning back in action at the Copnor Road training ground.

The outbreak forced the cancellation of the Boxing Day visit of Swindon and tomorrow’s trip to Bristol Rovers.

In total, half of League One’s Boxing Day fixture list was postponed as the virus hit a second wave, impacting across football.

Pompey took the decision to request the suspension of forthcoming matches on December 23, after a further two positive tests took them up to five.

However, the Blues were confident their January 2 clash at Accrington would still be able to go ahead.

The fact players have today returned to training suggests that remains the case as they prepare to face the eighth-placed side.

Incidentally, Accrington have had their last two matches called off due to coronavirus.

Scheduled opposition Doncaster and Sunderland have both acted following positive tests in their own camps.

Stanley last played on December 19, when they shared a goalless draw with Blackpool.

Unless there are sudden developments, however, Saturday’s encounter with Pompey will go ahead as planned.

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