Big boost in bid to land Lions man on loan deal

POMPEY have been given a huge boost in their pursuit of Ben Thompson.

As first revealed by The News, Kenny Jackett’s side are doggedly chasing the Millwall midfielder as they eye a Fratton Park reunion.

Thompson was outstanding when on loan at the Blues during the first half of the 2018-19 season.

In total, he scored three goals in 27 games as Pompey looked destined to clinch a top-two finish.

However, he was recalled to the Lions by then-manager Neil Harris in January.

The Blues finished the season outside the top two, with many fans believing Thompson’s departure was a key reason behind missing out on promotion.

The 25-year-old’s been out of favour at Millwall this term, though. He’s made just one Championship start to date – coming on in the opening day of the season clash with Stoke.

But that was because Lions loanee Ryan Woods was unable to feature against his parent club.

The Potters man and Ryan Leonard have been Lions boss Gary Rowett's preferred midfield partnership so far.

Now the South London Press reports that Thompson has requested to depart The Den on loan in a bid for more game-time.

However, the report says Rowett will only sanction a deal if he can firstly bolster his own engine-room options.

Jackett admitted Pompey have been keeping an eye on Thompson’s situation at Millwall, although a move is unlikely.

Nevertheless, hearing the Sidcup-born ace has asked to depart on a temporary basis offers some hope. Pompey have had calls with Millwall chief executive Steve Kavanagh every day – and will likely continue ahead of Friday’s transfer deadline.

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