Doubts over bid to tempt Thommo back
Jackett says tempting Millwall ace back looks ‘unlikely’
KENNY JACKETT confessed he has been keeping an eye on Fratton favourite Ben Thompson’s situation at Millwall.
But the boss conceded it’s unlikely the midfielder will be prised back to Pompey before the transfer window closes next week.
The Blues have been doggedly pursuing Thompson in recent weeks, as first revealed by The News.
The 25-year-old made an outstanding impact when on loan at Fratton Park two years ago.
During the first half of the 2018-19 season, he scored three goals in 27 appearances as Pompey appeared destined to clinch promotion to the Championship.
However, he was recalled to The Den midway through the campaign – with many fans believing his anticipated departure was key to why the Blues ultimately missed out on a top-two finish.
Thompson's been out of favour for the Lions this term, making only one start in the Championship for Gary Rowett's side so far.
Pompey are aware he's found himself down the midfield pecking order at the London outfit.
Despite knowing it'd be a huge challenge, the Blues have been trying to coax Thompson back to PO4.
Yet Jackett admitted a return looks slim.
The Pompey boss told The News: ‘I think it will be very unlikely that Ben will be coming out on loan.
‘Obviously, he is a player that we know well, but I think it will be very unlikely that Ben Thompson will be coming out on loan.
‘He is a good player and a very good character as well.
‘That is important because he brought a lot of character to the group.
‘Of course, we have kept an eye on him as we have many players around the country.
‘For him, we are pleased we contributed to his career because he got recalled by Millwall and got into the team to finish off the season strongly two years ago.
‘He's been substitute of late so he’s not too far away (from the starting XI).’
Jackett is not ruling out bringing in an alternative should they miss out on Thompson. The Blues have until next Friday (October 16) before the window closes.
Pompey are keen on bringing in a more forwardthinking player in the engine room. But the Blues boss stressed he’s happy with his current options in that area.
Jackett added: ‘At the moment, we have Tom Naylor, Ben Close, Bryn Morris and Andy Cannon.
‘We are always looking to try to imrpove. But, similarly, I do feel of those lads going the job in midfield as well.’