Portsmouth have been handed a welcome injury boost, as it has been reported that their 31-year-old forward Brett Pitman has returned to first-team training following a persistent groin problem.

According to the Portsmouth News, tomorrow's game against Southend United at Fratton Park could come too soon for Pitman, however.

Pitman has been missing since October 12 after suffering the injury against Gillingham, and has missed the subsequent league games against AFC Wimbledon, Lincoln City, Bristol Rovers and Oxford United due to the issue.

Pitman has found the net three times for Pompey in all competitions this season, and Kenny Jackett will be pleased to have the attacker back in the fold as Portsmouth have averaged just over a goal per game this season.

In his absence, Portsmouth have opted for a 4-2-3-1 formation, with John Marquis being deployed as the lone striker in the side.

The return of the Jersey-born striker will be good news for Marquis, as he is often at his best with a strike partner alongside him in the team.

Kenny Jackett will be hoping to have Pitman back fit for their FA Cup first round tie next Monday against Conference side Harrogate Town, where they will be aiming to avoid an upset.

The Verdict

This is welcome news for Pompey fans, as Marquis has been struggling for goals as of late, so Pitman's return to the fold may give the side a much needed lift.

Pitman last found the net for the Hampshire side in their 1-0 win over Bolton Wanderers on 28 September.