Portsmouth manager Kenny Jackett has confirmed that he is in the market for a left-back this January following injuries to key players in that position, The News reports.

First-choice Lee Brown and his backup Brandon Haunstrup have both been sidelined until February after undergoing operations, and promising prospect Joe Hancott has been ruled out for the season after suffering damage to his ACL in October.

Jackett said: "We haven’t got any left footers fit.

"Anton is an experienced full-back and can play a number of positions, but if you are looking at left-footers available in our current squad, that will probably be our first priority in January.

"We look at all positions, you have to look very quickly at who is available and who you think you can get.

"It’s all right having good targets, but they must be realistic and achievable targets as well.

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"We will start making some moves (getting a left-back) towards January, which is coming up very quickly.

"It could be a loan or permanent, depending on the player and the situation."

Anton Walkes has been the man who has drawn the short straw and had to deputise on the left flank with a lack of left-footed players available, Walkes featuring in the 4-1 defeat to Accrington Stanley last weekend.

The 21-year-old is expected to retain his place against Ipswich Town.

29-year-old Brown has featured 14 times in League One this season and has performed to a consistent standard, however Jackett admitted recently that Portsmouth are yet to see the best of him this season.

Haunstrup has served as Brown's backup this season and the 23-year-old has made nine appearances for the club where he came through the academy.

Left-back isn't the only position that Jackett looks to target this January, as a new recruit at centre-back is also on the shopping list.

The Verdict

Having the first three options ruled out in one position is going to cause any manager problems, let alone when it's a position that is as crucial as left-back.

Jackett is right to make signing a new left-back a priority, but he will have to do his due diligence and make sure that he fits his playing style, as well as being a good character within the dressing room.