Shaughnessy 'desperately' needed as Portsmouth as Ian Darke pinpoints weakness

Conor Shaughnessy is dearly missed by Portsmouth with Tom McIntyre not good enough to remain in the side, according to Ian Darke.

The TV commentator and Blues fan has rued the continued absence of Shaughnessy, who last played in August and is now expected to be out until February [The News, 18 December].

McIntyre was one of several poor performers in the 4-0 thrashing by Derby County last Friday [13 December], with midfielder Marlon Pack recently drafted into the defence but adding an own goal in the forgettable night at Pride Park.

"You'd hope, and everybody around would hope, that the club have got to the bottom of what's happened with Conor Shaughnessy and that when he's back, it's for good," Darke exclusively told Pompey News.

"He's desperately needed back there. I'm afraid to say Tom McIntyre has had too many mistakes and bad decisions to be persisted with.

"Pompey have got away with having Marlon Pack back there, but against Derby it probably caught up with them to have Pack in defence."

Portsmouth relying on successful January window

Portsmouth fans see January as the last meaningful opportunity to ensure the club have a passable Championship squad equipped for survival.

The defensive displays have at times been impressive with two clean sheets preceding the Derby defeat, but there have also been some other real low points including the 6-1 hammering by Stoke City and the 3-0 home loss to West Brom.

Shaughnessy has been absent with an uncertain timeframe on his return due to injuring both calves in separate intervals, keeping the Irishman on the sidelines for a prolonged period.

In other Portsmouth news, Jay Sadler reacts as Pompey Women dig out a well-earned draw at Sunderland.

For more Portsmouth news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.