The £7million summer signing, who holds the key to Pompey's favoured 4-5-1 system by providing the natural pace and width to their midfield, was joined on the practice field by on-loan striker Milan Baros and playmaker Lassana Diarra, who have also recently been sidelined by knocks.

Utaka has missed the last three matches, including the successful FA Cup semi-final triumph over West Bromwich Albion, but he is in contention for a return to the starting line-up at Manchester City on Sunday.

come back

First-team coach Joe Jordan said: "John is coming along fine. He took part with the boys in training on Wednesday and showed no ill-effects.

"We have been very cautious with all the players that have been injured and John has worked over the weekend and made sure he has recovered.

"He was one of a number who have come back into training and handled it well."

Portsmouth travel to Eastlands to take on Manchester City on Sunday in a match that could prove decisive in their bid for European qualification through the Barclays Premier League.