Hiwula brings pace to attack
Jackett: Pacy Hiwula will bring new dimension to Blues attacks
KENNY JACKETT is convinced Jordy Hiwula’s pace will bring a new dimension to Pompey’s attacking options.
The 26-year-old yesterday completed a switch to Fratton Park on a deal until January.
A free agent following his release from League One champions Coventry in June, the Blues made an approach for Hiwula following Ellis Harrison’s injury.
Harrison’s hamstring tear is expected to rule him out for up to three weeks, leaving John Marquis as the sole senior striker available to Pompey.
However, Jackett has moved to add the fleet-heeled Hiwula to his ranks, with the former Manchester City apprentice in the squad for
Saturday’s trip to Sunderland.
Jackett told The News: ‘Jordy Hiwula will be training with the team and is available for Sunderland.
‘He brings pace, he has very natural pace, and is a forward who, at different times, gets pushed wide, but I do see him as a forward. I like his pace, that’s a big thing.
‘At 26, he has quite a number of league games and can help in terms of making sure we have enough competition in depth.
‘Initially, he’s someone that will come off the bench and bring some pace to our attack.
‘He hasn’t had any games since leaving Coventry and we have signed him until January, which is obviously a short-term contract.
‘There is only one way to get fit really, though. I don’t think he can start, but he needs to be in with us and travelling and involved pretty quickly, that’s important.’
The arrival of Hiwula fills the final space in Pompey’s squad quota of 22.
Youngster Alfie Stanley was on the bench at Gillingham on Tuesday night to offer striking cover to John Marquis in the 2-0 win.
The 18-year-old will now return to loan club Bognor and is available for Saturday’s home clash with Margate.
As for Hiwula, his last appearance was in December 2019, starting Coventry’s 2-0 defeat at MK Dons in the Leasing.com Trophy.
In total, he made 18 appearances for the Sky Blues last season, scoring four times, as they won promotion to the Championship in a curtailed campaign.
He has also previously represented Walsall, Huddersfield, Wigan, Bradford and Fleetwood.
Jackett added: ‘It really developed Wednesday if I’m truthful.
‘Following Ellis’ injury, the opportunity came around in the last 24-48 hours,.
‘Jordy drove down from Manchester and completed a medical.
‘He’s a quick striker and I do think can bring some pace to our attack.’