Injuries have 'frustrated' Portsmouth's Shaughnessy

Conor Shaughnessy has only played eight times this campaign

Portsmouth defender Conor Shaughnessy has said that injuries this season have "frustrated" him and medical staff.

The 28-year-old has suffered two calf injuries and most recently a hamstring setback that have restricted him to just eight appearances this campaign.

Last season he was a regular name in the starting line-up, featuring 49 times in Pompey's League One title-winning campaign.

"It's been a difficult season and an injury that has frustrated me and all the staff," Shaughnessy told BBC Radio Solent.

"There's lots of factors that come into it with these injuries happening. It's been a tough season personally because of it, but it's been a great feeling to be back and be a part of the team staying up.

"We knew how difficult it was going to be coming into the Championship and it took a while to adjust. As a whole I think we have come on a lot since the start of the season."

The Blues achieved Championship survival with two games remaining when they beat Watford at Fratton Park.

Shaughnessy was on the bench for that game but a player who started in defence and has impressed since his loan signing is Rob Atkinson.

The 26-year-old joined from Bristol City until the end of the season and Shaughnessy has enjoyed the few times he has played with the loanee.

"He's been fantastic," he said. "I played a few of my games alongside him and I really enjoyed that. He's a very solid and experienced Championship defender.

"You can see that in every game that he plays - he raises the standard of our performance and I think the loan has worked well for both parties. He's been excellent for himself and the club.

"I think it would be great if we got him back next year. Everyone feels the same way about him but it will come down to him and Bristol City. I've definitely encouraged him to stay here though - we love him."

Portsmouth end their season on Saturday with a home fixture against Hull City (12:30 BST) - who are under threat of relegation on the final day.