Jackett set to return for Saturday showdown

KENNY JACKETT has been given a clean bill of health, according to Joe Gallen.

And Pompey’s manager is expected to resume full duties for Saturday’s visit of Gillingham.

Jackett once again maintained a low-key presence as Pompey triumphed 1-0 at Oxford United on Tuesday night.

As for last weekend’s defeat to Blackpool, the 59-year-old was in attendance for the Kassam Stadium fixture.

However, Gallen oversaw matters, including addressing players in the dressing room, while Jackett communicated via the phone during match proceedings.

Since last Thursday’s operation to remove a mole from his forearm, the Blues boss has not taken a training session.

But he’s expected to return to full involvement ahead of Saturday’s Fratton Park clash with Steve Evans’ Gills.

Gallen said: ‘Just to be clear, Kenny’s fine. When you see him and speak to him he is perfectly fine.

‘His arm is a bit sore if he has to have it in his pocket for three hours, that’s all.

‘It’s a clean bill of health, perfectly fine. If you hear him on the phone he’s back and he’s at it – and right on top again.

‘I would expect Saturday it will be as normal. I am 99 per cent certain, he’ll be there on the sidelines.

Jackett was expected to be absent for two weeks following his operation.

However, following an initial two day’s absence, he has remained fully involved.

Gallen added: ‘Kenny basically trusts me to get on with it. He knows I’m going to do what I’m told.

‘He feels if someone takes the training in the build-up, it should flow through to the end rather than somebody coming in during the middle of that.

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