Fit-again Thompson relishing Portsmouth right-back scrap

The defender was introduced at half-time against Plymouth following a groin injury to Anton Walkes.

Thompson subsequently helped Kenny Jackett's men to a 3-0 success over League One's bottom club to lift the Blues into second spot.

It represented a first outing since sustaining a knee injury against Luton on the opening day.

Now he must fight it out with Walkes for regular right-back residence.

Thompson said: '˜The gaffer knows if anyone steps out then he has quality coming in and the boys that came on against Plymouth did a good job in other lads' absence.

'˜Brett Pitman got 25 goals last season and he's sat on the bench as well, it just shows you how much quality's in this team '“ a team capable of promotion this season.

'˜In  previous seasons, if I've been out injured and come back in there hasn't been a huge amount of competition.

'˜To face that sharpens your game up and makes sure you are on it at all times. You can't afford to be sloppy because you know someone is there to take your position.

'˜Anton has looked solid for us. You look at defensive displays he's been in personally and as part of a team '“ and he has been solid, good going forward and formed a good partnership with Jamal.

'˜That's what it's all about, having quality all over the side and lads capable of filling in when needed.' 

During Thompson's five games on the sidelines, Walkes established himself at right-back.  

Now the former Swindon man is fit again.

He added: '˜It was my knee, there was tendonitis in there and I had a shot against Luton which aggravated that slightly.

'˜I've had an injection which settled that down and sorted the muscles around it.

'˜Once you've been out it's important to build up that match fitness. You can do as much running as you want by the side of the pitch, but you need to be on it .'