Problems easing for Redknapp

Portsmouth quartet Sean Davis, Richard Hughes, Glen Little, Noe Pamarot could all return to contention for the Man Utd game.

The four players have been absent because of pre-season injury problems but all are now back in training with the rest of the first-team squad.

Harry Redknapp's midfield problems saw centre-half Younes Kaboul played out of position in the 4-0 defeat at Chelsea but he is unlikely to be needed there against the champions.

Davis and Hughes have shaken off hip problems, while Pamarot and Little have seen thigh trouble clear up which is a boost following the sales of Pedro Mendes and Sulley Muntari.

However, Kanu (ankle), David Nugent (groin) and Linvoy Primus (groin) are all still unavailable.