Pompey without cup-tied quartet

Last Updated: Tue, 01 Dec 2009 12:16
Portsmouth

Avram Grant won't be able to call on Jamie O'Hara, Kevin-Prince Boateng or Tommy Smith for the Carling Cup tie with Aston Villa.

The new Portsmouth manager will also be unable select Mike Williamson as he is also cup tied as he looks to get his first win under his belt following Saturday's 4-1 defeat to Manchester United.

Goalkeeper Asmir Begovic should keep his place in the side with first-choice shot stopper David James still sidelined with a calf injury.

Steve Finnan and Papa Bouba Diop are also set to miss out as they continue to struggle with their groin and hamstring problems respectively.

While Grant says staying in the Premier League is his top priority he claims he won't let his players performance levels drop just because this is a cup tie.

"To say the players will play without pressure is like saying Van Gogh will paint without the colours," said Grant.

"Pressure is the name of the game and it's good that they know there is pressure.

"Sports push you to be the best and be at the top. You try to use the pressure to be better."



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