Portsmouth boss Paul Hart believes Hermann Hreidarsson could be ready for his first appearance of the season at Stoke next weekend. The 35 year old Icelandic defender has received the go-ahead to step up his training as he bids to return from a foot injury sustained in pre-season.

Hart told The News: "We've been told Hermann can now step up his training. The scans are still showing he still has a little bit of a tear in the tendon underneath his foot, but it doesn't appear to be getting any worse.

"If we don't step it up now, we could be waiting a long time.

"We've taken the advice of the specialist and he is stepping it up so hopefully he won't get any adverse reaction.

"He has got the enthusiasm of a 17-year-old and the desire of an animal. We miss him when he's not around."

Hart also believes Hreidarsson's experience will be a great asset in Pompey's battle to get out of the bottom three.

The Pompey boss added: "Hermann is very experienced.

"I don't know how many games he's played but it's probably around 800 and his experience will be invaluable to us - that's why we gave him another contract at the end of last season."