Wigan hopeful over Kirkland fitness

My Account
Logout

Create an Evening Standard Account

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Welcome! Sign in here

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Forgot your password ?

Registration

* indicates fields that are mandatory

Email *

Password *

Confirm Password *

First name *

Surname *

Postcode *

Country *

Mobile phone number

Username *

Gender *

Year of birth *

When you sign up...

You will have access to all our online competitions, discounted offers and can post comments on our site.

You will also receive The Weekender newsletter sent every Thursday - it’s full of fantastic offers and ideas for the weekend. You can update your email preferences in your account page when you log in.

Other newsletters and emails

Homes & Property Newsletter - Yes I want to receive the weekly email with all the latest news on property in the capital

Occasionally we would also like to send you relevant emails detailing specific offers either from ourselves or carefully selected partners. If you would prefer not to receive these then please tick the appropriate boxes below. We will never pass on your details.

I do not want to receive additional offers and information from the Evening Standard

I do not want to receive additional offers and information sent by Evening Standard on behalf of carefully selected partners

Terms and Conditions

* I have read, understood and agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of Evening Standard

Registration

Mail Sent for Registration Confirmation.

A confirmation email has been sent. Please activate your account by clicking on the activation link sent in your mail box.

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 game 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.