Portsmouth boss Harry Redknapp believes that forward John Utaka will become a great player for the Fratton Park side. Utaka has shown glimpses of class since his £7 million move from Rennes in the summer.

'It's great to get John back in the team and playing again. He is important to us," he told The News. "He's come back from injury but we won't be resting him. He's got pace, skill and he's strong.

"He's been up and down to be honest. He started ever so well for the first few games, then went off the boil a bit. You've got to be a bit patient. It's his first year here and he's got to adjust.

"He's been playing in France, it's a different pace over there. John Utaka will be here next year, without a doubt, and I'm sure he'll produce what we know he's capable of."