Appleton desperate for Football League go-ahead

POMPEY are hoping the Football League will make their future clearer tomorrow.

Michael Appleton’s side will inevitably be at the top of the agenda when football chiefs attend one of their regular general meetings.

Among the matters expected to be addressed is whether the Blues can be considered ‘competitive’ heading into Saturday’s League One opener against Bournemouth.

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Portpin’s delayed takeover continues to impact on Appleton’s ability to bolster his playing ranks.

Last night nine players made their first-team debuts as the Blues had to rely on youth, while first-team coach Ashley Westwood limped out of the action with damaged ankle ligaments.

Now Pompey’s manager is looking for the Football League to lend a hand in helping him recruit some of his triallists.

Appleton said: ‘I would like to think that come tomorrow there would be clear messages of what we can and can’t do and who we can and cannot sign.

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‘There are deadlines to meet regarding the start of the season and I would like to think someone, somewhere would give me a clear indication of what, when, how and who and I will take it from there.

‘The Football League meeting is pre-arranged. I would imagine somewhere on the agenda is Portsmouth Football Club. With our scenario and dilemma, I would think it would come up pretty highly on it.

‘There are two or three different variations you can do if you can’t get people to sign full contracts and I am sure we will be advised by the Football League which is the best scenario.

‘I am hoping things can be clarified – or I might actually put my boots on myself.’