Coventry City could be without their Icelandic long throw specialist Aron Gunnarsson for the opening game of the season at The Ricoh against Portsmouth on Saturday.
Gunnarsson was replaced early in last Saturday's final pre season friendly against West Brom because of a back spasm.
It now looks as if he will not be fit enough to claim a place in the 2010/11 season curtain raiser against Pompey.
City manager Aidy Boothroyd explained, "It's touch and go but I will be surprised if he makes it for the weekend."
"He damaged an oblique muscle on Saturday and obviously had to go off and we are taking it day by day. It will be disappointing if he does miss the game but the good things is we have got a few options."
The Sky Blues boss is not short of midfield options and is likely to start with the new club captain Lee Carsley along with Sammy Clingan. Michael Doyle is also a possibility if Boothroyd opts for three man midfield.
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