We’re ready to step it up, says Blues boss

POMPEY are ready to begin close-contact training ahead of the season’s likely resumption.

Kenny Jackett explained his men are waiting for the green light to step up to phase two of the government’s return to training guidance for elite sport.

And the Blues’ boss is confident his players are in the right condition to step up the intensity of their work to be ready for a return to competitive action.

Pompey are today continuing to train as they work within the parameters of social distancing.

The Blues have applied for the EFL’s Return to Training protocol and are waiting to begin that process.

It seems next Tuesday’s vote on the way ahead for the season will hold the key to things accelerating.

Jackett said: ‘I’m pleased with their fitness levels.

‘Our players have kept fit and, in terms of their individual body weights and fat, they’re good.

‘As for getting to a stage where we can put on some competitive sessions, they will be ready.

‘What we’re doing is good to monitor people’s individual fitness.

‘The competitive side of it will come and I’m confident they can step up to it pretty quickly.’

Two Pompey players are continuing their work away from the club’s training ground, as the wait for guidance on the way ahead goes on.

Jackett added: ‘We do need to get some type of clarity going forward. That’s needed.

‘But it seems maybe we’ll get that at some stage next week now to see exactly what League One looks like.

‘Whether that’s play again or play-offs, they seem to be the considerations given.’