Portsmouth manager Kenny Jackett has revealed he'll be without two key players for the upcoming clash with Gillingham.

As quoted by the Portsmouth News , Jackett revealed Brett Pitman and Gareth Evans will not be returning for the big game against the Gills. Pompey sit in eleventh with their opponents in twelfth and defeat for either would effectively end any lingering play-off hopes.

"We haven't got anybody back this week that we would have had last week. Pitman and Evans will be the first two back out of our injuries, but that won't be for Gillingham. We'll see if those two make it for the week after, but that's the earliest they'll be back."

15-goal striker Pitman is perhaps the biggest worry, he's been out for the last two matches after picking up a knock against Southend on February 17th. The former Bournemouth striker has been in fine form, averaging a goal every two games as Pompey aimed for back to back promotions.

Evans was forced off in the same match, just minutes after pulling a goal back in a game his side ultimately lost 3-1. He's another key player, having made 29 appearances this season, scoring twice.

Both are considered first team players at Fratton Park and their absence will be felt on Saturday when Gillingham make the trip across the south of the country. The Gills haven't won in their last three matches and currently look to be out of the play off race anyway, but defeat in Portsmouth would rubber stamp their mid-table mediocrity.

The Verdict

Although both sides are mathematically still in with a play off shout, defeat for either would effectively spell the end of their slim hopes. Portsmouth will undoubtedly miss their leading scorer and midfield talisman, who wouldn't? I still expect them to make short work of the floundering Gills and keep their own hopes alive, for now.