Source: Team_Talk
Dindane needs more game time - Grant
Avram Grant is optimistic Lens will allow Aruna Dindane to feature in Portsmouth's run-in to ensure he is at his best for the FA Cup final.[LNB] Dindane last appeared in Pompey colours during the team's 2-0 triumph over Tottenham in Sunday's semi-final at Wembley.[LNB]But the Ivory Coast international is unable to play against Aston Villa on Sunday as it would trigger a clause in his loan deal with Lens, which would force cash-strapped Pompey to pay the French side £4million.[LNB]Reports have suggested Lens would allow Dindane to play against Chelsea at Wembley on May 15, but not in Pompey's final four Premier League games.[LNB]This offer could be of little help to Grant, who is already operating with a threadbare squad going into this weekend's match at Fratton Park.[LNB]He was forced to field academy stars Joel Ward, Lenny Sowah and Matt Ritchie in the goalless draw with Wigan on Wednesday night.[LNB]And Grant feels Dindane would benefit from getting some matches under his belt before the south-coast club take on Carlo Ancelotti's Blues next month.[LNB]He said: "I hope Lens will be reasonable and let him play.[LNB]"Many things that happened last Sunday were a miracle. Players played after two months out and they had to play for 120 minutes.[LNB]"Aruna Dindane was one of those who came back, but I don't think it can happen twice for the final. We need Aruna to play a few games before."[LNB]With Lens likely to offload Dindane in the summer and the player competing for a spot in the Ivory Coast's World Cup squad, Grant is optimistic an agreement can be reached with his parent club to allow him to turn out before the cup final.[LNB]He added: "I think it can only be good for the club and the player. He is going to play in the World Cup as well.[LNB]"I think they will be reasonable and let him play. Why not? I don't see any reason why not.[LNB]"I hope I'll be able to use him but you can't be confident with anything off the field at this club."
