Portsmouth manager Kenny Jackett has confirmed that Conor Chaplin and Brett Pitman will both miss Sunday’s televised clash at Gillingham in an interview with the club’s official website.

The former Wolves and Millwall boss confirmed that Chaplin’s hamstring injury - which he picked up in the warm-up of Tuesday’s Checkatrade Trophy win over Crawley Town - is more of a ‘niggle’, meaning that the midfielder should be back in action very soon.

Striker Pitman remains sidelined, and his continued absence will come as a blow to fans who had hoped to see their top scorer back in action this weekend.

Positive news from Jackett revealed that Christian Burgess and Nathan Thompson are on the verge of first team returns, although a decision on the pair for this weekend’s match will not be taken until Saturday.

The Verdict

Pompey will be disappointed to enter the game at Priestfield without Chaplin and Pitman, with the pair impressing greatly since Portsmouth’s return to League One this season.

Gillingham are in the relegation spots and managerless since Ady Pennock left the role, and victory will see the Gills climb out of the bottom four if other results go their way.

Portsmouth could close in on the playoff spots with victory, and Jackett will be keen to continue their solid run of form in front of the cameras, although it will be a difficult task without his prized pair on the pitch.

Who do you think takes the points at Priestfield on Sunday? Have your say below...

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