New arrival Hiwula still has backing of the boss

JORDY HIWULA remains someone Pompey have the utmost confidence in – despite his limited game-time.

The striker has featured just three times since signing a short-term deal at Fratton Park last month.

He’s featured for a total of 10 minutes in the Blues’ League One promotion push, while his only start was in the 1-0 loss to West Ham under-21s in the Papa John’s Trophy.

Hiwula’s found the likes of John Marquis, Ellis Harrison and Marcus Harness ahead in the pecking order as he continues to wait for his Pompey chance.

Nevertheless, Kenny Jackett has been pleased how the ex-Coventry man has settled into his south-coast surroundings.

Hiwula’s contract expires on January 20 and extending his stay is something Pompey will explore despite being confined to a bit-part role.

And Jackett stressed the forward must take his chance when it arrives.

The Blues boss said: ‘Jordy’s game-time has been limited since arriving. At the moment, John Marquis and Ellis Harrison are up front while Marcus Harness has gone up there at different times.

‘Despite not having much game-time, I have got confidence in him. There is potential to extend his deal. I have been pleased with him and do like him around.’

Hiwula was again left on the bench in Tuesday night’s 1-1 draw with Oxford United.

Some supporters bemoaned Jackett didn’t use up his five substitutes and the former Huddersfield man could have offered something different in the closing stages. Jackett admitted he did mull over bringing Hiwula off the bench.

He added: ‘I was tempted to bring him on against Oxford.

Ultimately, I wanted to leave the game with Marquis and Harrison and because they are quite big players to take off.

‘By the end, it was a temptation to bring him.’