Portsmouth early team news v Leeds: Star attacker ruled out
Portsmouth play host to Leeds United this weekend, though they will do so without several first-team regulars.
After what was a cruel start to life back in the Championship, Portsmouth have since proved their worth to the division with a series of impressive results, and Leeds must tread carefully ahead of the game.
John Mousinho’s side suffered a slight setback in the 1-0 defeat to Luton Town, though they have caused a threat to several teams at the top end of the table.
As for Leeds, they remain in the driving seat for promotion to the Premier League and will be just as aware of the potential banana skins that can emerge in these types of fixtures.
However, in regard to the latest team news, Leeds appear to have received a boost in their chances of coming way with all three points.
Paddy Lane ruled out of Leeds clash
Portsmouth will already have been aware of the challenge that awaits them, but it has got even harder for the Blues with Paddy Lane the latest to be ruled out of the encounter.
According to a report from The News (5 March), Lane will remain in the treatment room alongside several others with Conor Shaughnessy and winter arrival Hayden Matthews also sidelined.
The latter two will still have a part to play this season, though Lane will miss the final 11 fixtures having undergone surgery for the injury sustained against Blackburn at the turn of the year, with Callum Lang also suffering a similar fate.
| Portsmouth | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| Callum Lang | 29 | 10 | 2 |
| Paddy Lane | 22 | 1 | 1 |
Even with a full squad, Leeds should be able to inflict plenty of damage to Pompey, though they must prevent any complacency from creeping into their game.
Fratton Park can offer one of the most tense atmospheres in the Championship, and the Whites need to do their best to silence that crowd.
Leeds need to secure victory at Fratton Park
Promotion remains in the hands of Leeds, though one slip up could completely alter the race for a top two finish heading into the latter stages of the season.
After last season’s disappointment, concerns at this stage will be more than understandable, though many of them will be curtailed with a win.
With the game not taking place until Sunday, Leeds will have a clear picture as to just how important all three points will be.