Kirkland pulled out of Wednesday night's friendly against France in Paris due to a back injury, yet manager Steve Bruce is confident he will make the trip to Fratton Park.

"Thankfully common-sense prevailed and Chris didn't have to travel to London to be assessed by the England doctors," said Bruce.

"The journey wouldn't have been ideal for someone with a bad back, but we do expect him to be okay by the weekend, although his back was still a bit in spasm on Tuesday."

Bruce faces a crisis in midfield as Michael Brown, Wilson Palacios and Jason Koumas are all suspended for the match with Pompey.

"Having three central midfielders out at a crucial stage isn't ideal, but I hope we have enough strength in depth to deal with it," added Bruce.