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Portsmouth targets post-international break return for Shaughnessy

By WAF News Desk 2 min read
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Portsmouth manager John Mousinho has indicated that centre-back Conor Shaughnessy could return to action following the next international break, potentially opening the door for the Irish defender to feature in the club's November 21 fixture at Bolton, according to reporting from The News Portsmouth FC.

Shaughnessy has been absent since suffering a groin injury during the second half of Portsmouth's match against Blackburn on September 19. The club has been cautious with his recovery, with Mousinho emphasising that the decision will not be rushed despite the lengthy spell out. The manager stated that the plan involves allowing Shaughnessy a full two-week window after the international break to ensure his complete recuperation before returning to competitive action.

In Shaughnessy's absence, the partnership of Regan Poole and Madiodio Dia has developed in central defence. Mousinho has expressed satisfaction with how this pairing has performed, noting they have coped well with the limited availability in that position. With Benjamin Arthur also unavailable through a fractured back with no expected return until the New Year, cover in defence remains limited.

Mousinho stressed the club's general reluctance to accelerate player returns from injury, explaining that Portsmouth prefers to manage recoveries carefully to avoid recurrence. He acknowledged the only exception this season has been Osadebe, who was brought back to the bench in Wolves' match earlier than ideal due to other squad pressures. Should Shaughnessy's recovery extend beyond November, Portsmouth indicated it would manage the centre-back shortage through alternative means rather than compromise on his fitness.

Reporting from The News Portsmouth FC

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