Striker fitness fears for Redknapp

Boss Harry Redknapp has admitted that striker Jermain Defoe is struggling to be fit for Portsmouth's trip to Everton on Saturday.

The England international is struggling with a virus and missed training on Thursday, which means Pompey could be forced into a 4-5-1 formation with Peter Crouch used as a lone frontman, with Kanu and David Nugent not fit.

However Redknapp, who is looking to avoid the club's worst start to a new season in 50 years, could push Ben Sahar or John Utaka into attack.

He told The News: "Jermain has been ill. He isn't well. He's got a bit of a bug he's picked up. We'll see how he is.

"Kanu's not fit. He hasn't really kicked a ball. Ben Sahar can play up front and John Utaka can play up front. Nugent's not fit."

Redknapp also feels the likes of Armand Traore and Glen Johnson will have a big part to play in providing chances for his forward players.

He added: "I think they are two of the best attacking full-backs we could wish to find.

"For 4-4-2 to work you need width and they can provide it for us.

"Manchester United didn't play with any natural width against us this week. They played with a narrow midfield. Their width came from their full-backs.

"We have players who can do that. Glen is a good as anyone, a great attacking right-back and Traore is a kid with a good future."