English side, West Ham United will miss Ghana defender, John Paintsil's services for their game against Portsmouth on Saturday.

The defender’s return to England has been delayed due to visa problems.

West Ham manager, Alan Pardew has confirmed the right back was was unable to return early from Ghana because UK Customs officials turned him away because his visa had expired.

Paintsil returned to Ghana after picking up an injury in a league match against Liverpool.

"He is not missing. He is doing everything he can to get back with a new visa," Pardew said.

Paintsil is now set to return to the UK on Friday, but will be unavailable for Saturday's match at Fratton Park.