Harvey Blair sends injury update ahead of Portsmouth return

Portsmouth winger Harvey Blair has become somewhat of a forgotten figure at Fratton Park.

Blair sustained an injury in Portsmouth's 1-1 draw with Hull on the final day of last season, and has yet to be seen in blue this month.

The youngster had been viewed as one of the most attractive prospects in football during his time with Liverpool, and Portsmouth's permanent transfer was seen as a real coup.

However, injuries have plagued his progression on the south coast, but he looks to be making progress towards match fitness.

Harvey Blair sees a specialist as he recovers from injury

While with Liverpool, Blair sustained a meniscus tear, which kept him out for several months.

Blair's injury problems at Fratton Park have prompted John Mousinho to explore short-term alternatives, with the loan signing of Florian Bianchini from Swansea.

Despite not being available for the foreseeable future, Blair is making progress towards match fitness, having seen a specialist.

On X, Blair posted a photo of himself in action last season, and wrote: "Can't wait to be back playing in front of you guys. Not long now. PUP."

Injuries Blair has had:

• Torn Hamstring: The injury was so severe that the tendon was almost torn off the bone. He missed the entirety of pre-season
• Meniscus Tear: In July 2023, while training with the Liverpool first team, he suffered a meniscus tear in his knee
• Hamstring Injury: He had a long-term hamstring injury during his first season with Liverpool's Under-18 squad in 2020

Although the 21-year-old has issued his update, Mousinho has insisted that he isn't close to a return to the first team.

Pompey must be careful in easing Blair back into action to avoid a repeat of the injury.

• Read more: Callum Lang speaks out about ‘really frustrating’ news at Portsmouth

When could Harvey Blair return?

The average recovery time from a torn hamstring is four to six months for a severe tear.

Therefore, supporters could go another three months before they see Blair back in action.

Given his past injury record, it is unlikely that he will be thrust straight back into first-team action, so it could be in the new year when he becomes a regular back in Mousinho's side.

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