Portsmouth director of football Avram Grant believes players with Kanu's craft are a dying breed, after the Nigerian veteran's cameo inspired his side to a 2-0 win over Burnley on Saturday. Kanu has started just twice for the Premier League strugglers this term but his strong reputation as an impact substitute has seen him called into action from the dugout 13 times.

Asked why the former Arsenal man did not start against Burnley, Grant said: "It's very easy - he's 55 years old. He's 60 next year."

But the Israeli believes the ex-Inter Milan and Ajax star adds a dash of flare to Pompey's play.

He said: "Football has changed a lot in the last 10 years - it has become more athletic and more aggressive.

"But I think we need to look for intelligent players like Kanu because in one move he can change the game, like he did for the first goal.

"He's highly intelligent and thinking about the game and he's very good for the team."