Kenny Jackett details reasons for Jordy Hiwula's Portsmouth omission as he fires message to striker

And the Blues boss has detailed the reasoning for the front man being left out in the cold for the past two games, as his side’s promotion bid stuttered.

Hiwula failed to make the 18-man squad for the home losses against promotion rivals against Hull City and Lincoln, before Saturday’s clash at Charlton was postponed.

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That has seen frustration mount among some supporters, who are keen for the 26-year-old to be given game time to prove himself.

The former Manchester City man has played just 10 minutes of league football this season.

But his three goals in as many starts and two sub appearances in cup competitions, has given supporters an insight into the direct play and finishing ability Hiwula possesses.

His lack of game time put a question mark over his future when his deal came to close earlier this month, but the man who arrived in October after departing Coventry agreed terms until the end of the campaign.

Jackett acknowledged Hiwula has found himself down the attacking pecking order, but feels he will get his chance as games come thick and fast over the second half of the season.

He said: ‘Jordy’s putting the work in in terms of pushing for selection.

‘Obviously, up until recently he hasn’t been able to get in because we’ve been doing so well.

‘That obviously changes with a couple of defeats.

‘For us, we want to use our squad and make sure everybody can contribute.

‘Let’s say for John Marquis, Ellis Harrison, Ronan Curtis, Marcus Harness, Michael Jacobs and Ryan WIlliams, it’s been those six really who have just held him off.

‘It’s been hard for him to shift those lads, either through the middle or in wide areas.

‘In an ideal world we keep the same XI and keep winning, but it doesn’t always work that way - and then you need options.

‘He’s worked hard and it will open up for him again.’

There was a strong reaction to Hiwula not even making the bench against Lincoln last Tuesday, after the 4-0 drubbing against Hull.

Jackett explained that move is not a criticism of the striker, as he broke down the thinking behind his sub selection.

He added: ‘On the subs’ bench we’re generally going for two defensive players, two midfield players and two forwards. That’s been the case.

‘I’ve not had an adaptable defender who can go right across the cover for the back four.

‘That does sometimes buy you space for one more player up front.

‘So it’s just circumstance why he hasn’t been in.’

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