Portsmouth assistant manager Joe Gallen has provided an update on striker Brett Pitman, who pulled out of the squad last night after complaining of knee pains.

The 29-year-old joined the club this summer, and has notched an incredible nine goals in his thirteen League One outings this season.

Concerns had been raised after Pitman pulled out at the last minute as Pompey prepared to face Charlton in the Checkatrade Trophy, but Gallen has played down fears of a serious problem in an interview with the club's official site released on Twitter.

“He came up to me and said he’d hit a shot in the warm-up and his knee was a bit sore,” Gallen said.

“He went and saw the physio who thought it was better to pull him out than to risk him.

“Hopefully it’s very minor, but we’ll have to find out.”

The Verdict

Pompey fans will have been holding their breath after news of Pitman’s withdrawal from the squad reaches their news feeds, but it appears the issue is relatively minor.

Gallen’s words suggested it was a minor problem without giving too much away, but more news should reach fans shortly as the club conduct further tests into the issue.

Portsmouth fans shouldn’t be too worried however, and it appears likely that Pitman could be available at the weekend.

Pompey fans, is Pitman the man who will lead you to promotion this season? Have your say below...