Gutted for Griff

Last updated : 09 March 2005 By Keith Allman
You've got to feel sorry for Andy Griffin. He came in to Portsmouth, made cameo appearances in a couple of matches, and for some reason the fans turned against him before he even had a chance to settle in. Eventually his all-action performances and uncomprising tackles won the fans over, but then he picked up a knock. And then a week after making a decent return at Old Trafford, he gets injured again.

Unfortunately it's the worst possible news - he's out for six weeks with a calf strain. Considering we're already fairly lightweight at the back it's far from ideal. Velimir has said that he doesn't want to have to play all three of Linvoy, De Zeeuw and Stefanovic in the same team again this season to save them from the risk of injury - although he had no choice after Griff limped off against Arsenal - but no doubt Cissé will step in again at right back against Newcastle.

And speaking of Newcastle - it means that Griffin will miss the chance to face up against his former club in ten days time. It's a shame as he really added a bit of steel to the right side against Manchester United, but hopefully whoever steps in as his replacement is up to the task. And, most importantly, hopefully we don't get any more injuries.