Niko Returning!

Harry Redknapp has told The News that Niko Kranjcar is still a big part of the Pompey team.
Niko has been out for the past seven weeks after damaging ligaments in his right ankle, but HR is adamant that Kranjcar has a big part to play in Pompey's success this season.

'Niko is coming back, hopefully by the back end of the month, which is a big bonus for us.

'He's a top, top player in my opinion and there will always be a role for him in my team, no doubt about that.

'The lad is a cracking footballer. I just have to get him fit and then look at getting him into the team.

'Someone like Niko makes you stronger. He's an international player, a quality performer on the world stage - any manager would want him in their team.

'He can create something out of nothing, come up with a bit of magic that no-one else can.

'There are not many of him around in the Premier League at the moment, that's for sure.

'Obviously, Armand and Nadir have done fantastic down that left for us since they came to the club, but Niko can play in other positions.

'He has played a lot on the left for us but he can also go on the right - he's naturally right-footed - or he could operate behind the front two if you wanted.

'The lad gives us options but first I just want to get him fit and then see what happens.'

Kranjcar is expected to return by the end of October, just in time for a busy schedule ahead of the UEFA cup group stages and Premiership matches over the next couple of months.

Although Niko has been missed by the 'Fratton Faithful', his replacements in the form of Nadir Belhadj and Armand Traore, have been more than enough to fill his boots on the left-hand side.

The duo on loan from RC Lens and Arsenal, played a big part in Pompey's early success in the UEFA cup, so it looks like is going to have to fight hard for his place back, when returning fully to training.