Niko targets starting slot

Kranjcar to play waiting game as he looks for chance

By Chris Harvey   Last updated: 6th November 2008

Niko targets starting slot

Kranjcar: Aiming for starting berth at Sunderland

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Portsmouth midfielder Niko Kranjcar has vowed to bide his time as he looks to force his way into Pompey's starting line-up.

The Croatia international is looking to start for Tony Adams' side at Sunderland after coming off the bench to score against Wigan.

Kranjcar replaced Armand Traore at half-time last Saturday and scored an 82nd minute equaliser before Emile Heskey netted a last-gasp winner.

The 24-year-old hasn't started a match since the opening day of the season against Chelsea. He has recently been sidelined with an ankle injury but is now fully fit and looking to reclaim his place.

However, he realises he faces a tough task to force his way into the starting eleven.

He told the Portsmouth News: "It's great to be back, great to play football again. I'm just feeling great at the moment and to score again was fantastic.

Important

"I've been out for a while, but my general play is the most important thing and I was pleased with how it went [against Wigan].

"I want to get back into the side, but I believe we as a team have unbelievable individuals and obviously everyone wants to play, so it's going to be hard competition for places.

"There are quality players at this football club and every one of them is going to lift elements of the team and help us get the results."

Kranjcar admits defeat last weekend was a blow but is confident things are on the up under new boss Adams.

He said: "Wigan didn't go so well - we created unbelievable opportunities but couldn't manage to get anything from it

"But we've still got good players here and, obviously, I'll have to wait for my chance to get back into the side - I realise that."