Harry waiting for new boys
08 Sep 2006 - 09:54:19
Portsmouth boss Harry Redknapp fears he won't be able to field any of his deadline day buys against Wigan Athletic on Saturday.
Striker Andrew Cole arrived from Manchester City, midfield playmaker Niko Kranjcar from Hajduk Split and winger Roudolphe Douala from Sporting Lisbon, but Redknapp does not think any of them are fully match fit yet.
"Coley has trained with us this week but he is still short (of fitness) and might need a reserve match next week before he is ready to start," said the veteran manager.
"Kranjcar only arrived on Thursday after playing for Croatia in Russia. He doesn't know anybody here yet.
"And the other lad Douala is still settling in as well, although he might be a possibility for the subs bench.
"There is no sense in rushing them - particularly after the fantastic start we have had."
Midfielder Manuel Fernandes, who joined Pompey on loan from Benfica last week, will also miss out because of a groin injury.