CROUCH FIT TO EASE POMPEY PROBLEMS

Crouch - fitness boost.

A stomach bug affecting 10 players is the latest blow to hit Portsmouth's ill-fated pre-season tour in Africa but after the riots in Nigeria, manager Harry Redknapp finally has some good news.

New £11 million striker Peter Crouch, defender Linvoy Primus and midfielder Sean Davis were all passed fit to face side Ajax Cape Town on Wednesday in a friendly match at their training ground after shaking off the virus.

Injuries have beset Pompey on tour and winger John Utaka, striker Kanu and new signing Glen Little have all had to sit out training in Cape Town.

Meanwhile, centre-back Noe Pamarot has been sent for a scan on a damaged thigh, raising concerns he will miss the start of the season including the FA Community Shield curtain-raiser against United at Wembley a week on Sunday.

Redknapp has boosted his side with the inclusion of trialist Celestine Babayaro, the former Anderlecht, Chelsea and Newcastle defender.

Babayaro had his contract terminated by Newcastle in December having played just 47 games in three seasons following back and groin problems.

The Nigerian international, 30, made the trip with Pompey despite being reportedly diagnosed with a case of malaria just a few weeks ago.

The match against Ajax Cape Town will also give Redknapp the chance to further assess their Cameroon Under-23 international midfielder Eyong Enoh, 22, who is also being given a trial.

He trained with Pompey in Cape Town yesterday and is just back from a trial with Israeli side Maccabi Haifa - with another invitation soon to try out with Ajax Amsterdam - the South African side's parent club.

Pompey could also offer a professional contract to Gambian free agent Omar Krumah although Redknapp has already warned the versatile forward is not yet ready for the Premier League.