The Pompey boss has completed the loan signing of the winger from Charlton.

And Thomas goes straight into Redknapp's squad for tomorrow's Premier League opener at Chelsea.

The 25-year-old will provide some much-needed reinforcement down the left, with the Blues short on options in that area.

Redknapp has been a long-term admirer of the former Arsenal trainee and has tried to bring him to Fratton Park previously.

The Londoner was heralded as one of the brightest talents in the game as a youngster with the Gunners.

But he never made the breakthrough there and was sold to Charlton.
Thomas made 101 appearances in four years at the Valley, and has found his career not quite reaching the heights it was predicted he would hit.

Redknapp has full confidence in the winger's ability, though, and feels he has talent that belongs at the highest level.

He now wants Thomas to show that.
Redknapp said: 'I have taken Jerome on loan.

'He is on Championship wages and is a good loan signing.
'I've taken him to the end of the season.

'I have Niko still, but I thought he was a good loan signing.
'Jerome can play here, and it is up to him to take the opportunity.

'I'm putting him on the big stage to see what he can do.

'He has great ability and it is up to him to show it.'
Redknapp stated Thomas will come straight into his thinking at Stamford Bridge tomorrow.

The Pompey boss is short of options with a number of players sidelined with injuries.

Glen Little, Sean Davis, Noë Pamarot, Marc Wilson, David Nugent, Linvoy Primus and Richard Hughes are all missing.

Redknapp feels that has exposed a squad which is already short on numbers.

He said: 'I haven't got a squad here.
'At the moment I am short on players for tomorrow.

'I may have to find a kid from somewhere. I have a few injuries, but we are short anyway.'

One bonus for Redknapp is the addition of Younes Kaboul to his ranks this week.

The Frenchman is being touted to play in a midfield role tomorrow at Stamford Bridge.

Redknapp said: 'I'm pleased to get Younes. He has great potential.
'I had stiff opposition from Sunderland and Villa.

'But he wanted to be here and that worked in our favour.'