Harry Redknapp has praised David Nugent's recent improved attitude towards training.
Pompey boss praises striker's improved professionalism
Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp has praised David Nugent's recent improved attitude towards training and hope he will seize his chance in the first-team.
Nugent has barely had a sniff following his switch from Preston last summer, although the upcoming African Cup of Nations is set to give him a run in the side.
With the likes of Kanu and John Utaka representing their respective countries in Ghana later this month Redknapp will be relying on Nugent more than ever.
Nugent got off to a good start at the weekend with Pompey's FA Cup winner at Ipswich and Redknapp is pleased to see the former Bury man finally realising what is required to become a Premier League regular.
Professional
"He hasn't had a lot of chances as Benjani has done so well for us," explained Redknapp.
"Nugent has become more professional in training and his outlook. He has been around better players and I think he realises now what's needed.
"When I took him, I checked him out with the people at the Under-21s and they said he isn't the best trainer in the world - people need to come in and train well every day.
"He has worked hard on his game in the last month or so, has improved him training and hopefully now he'll get his chance to do well."
