Paul Cook wants Jack back

The Pompey boss believes the defender has a path back into senior contention before the end of the campaign.

Whatmough has extended his loan stay with Hawks until the end of the season after an initial month’s stay at Westleigh Park.

Pompey are able to recall the 19-year-old at any time, however, and add him to their options.

The Gosport talent has made four starts on the bounce as he steps up his recovery from nearly 10 months out with a knee injury.

Whatmough ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament against Cheltenham last March, paving the way for a lengthy period of rehabilitation.

Cook thanked Hawks for giving the player a platform to build his recovery.

After an initial two substitute appearances, Whatmough is now building momentum.

And Cook explained he is hoping to bring him back into his options.

He said: ‘Jack’s there’s just to play some footie.

‘It’s important Jack gets some 90 minutes under his belt now so he can come back into our squad and have involvement towards the end of the season.

‘It’s good for him.

‘Lee (Bradbury) is happy about it as well.

‘Havant’s a good club for us.

‘It’s a dual thing for us.

‘(Rommy) Boco was there and a couple of our younger lads have been there.

‘If Jack can get match fitness there and all of sudden come back into our first team that would be good for him.’