Regan Poole’s Fitness Uncertain for Portsmouth’s Derby Match

Defender Regan Poole has featured in the starting lineup for Portsmouth in 14 Championship matches during the current season. John Mousinho, Portsmouth’s head coach, announced that Regan Poole is scheduled for a fitness assessment prior to the team’s Championship fixture against Derby County on Friday. Poole, a defender, was withdrawn at the half-time interval during Tuesday’s goalless draw (0-0) against Norwich due to a hamstring problem. Mousinho conveyed to BBC Radio Solent: “Regan was out training today but did nothing more than the other lads as it was just a walk-through session and we’re going to see how he is tomorrow.” He added, “He’s touch and go for the weekend but will have a fitness test and we’ll see how we go.” Mousinho further explained the decision to substitute Poole: “The big reason around bringing him off was so we didn’t have any further damage because if we go into the second half and he ends up doing something that makes it worse, we’d really kick ourselves.” Additionally, Mousinho confirmed that left-back Jacob Farrell is nearing the completion of his recovery from a knee injury and is expected to rejoin training sessions soon. Farrell, an Australian player, has made only a single appearance since his transfer from the Australian club Central Coast Mariners in July.