“It’s a tough one on Matej, to be fair, because his level in training, especially the last few days (before Portsmouth), was really, really good,” according to the mayor.

“As much as I’d like to choose everyone because it would make my life ten times easier, I can say he is very much in our plans and thoughts. He’s just someone we’re pushing.

“You have to understand that he missed a significant amount of time, making it difficult for him to return to the level that we all want him to be at.

He is pushing hard, and he worked extremely hard at Watford. He has some characteristics that I really like. Matej is very much part of it, and at the right time, you’ll see him.”

Emi Marcondes, another attacking option, has forced his way into Manning’s thoughts with two consecutive starts after missing the opening day defeat to Millwall.

“That was more his heel was a little bit sore, and he was one of those where we kind of half-knew we were going to look at him in the next cup game,” Manning went on. “We had a conversation, and to give him the best chance for Watford, we left him out, and I thought his performance was outstanding. He deserved the opportunity in Portsmouth.

“He’s the one who carries the little bits that we have to manage. But it’s the most difficult part for the entire group, including the lads.

Parking your individual goals at the expense of the team. Kellen (Fisher) was excellent the other night, but I needed him to come on and make a real positive impact, just like some of the other guys.

“Jacob (Wright) may be disappointed not to start, but he comes on and provides exactly what the team requires. It’s not easy to do over the course of a season.

Obviously, it is my responsibility to keep players focused on the team and recognise that it is much bigger than any of us.”

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