Pompey boss details reasons for Jack Whatmough omission as he drops hints over FC Midtjylland man's starting hopes

And the Pompey boss has tipped Rasmus Nicolaisen to grow from being given an extended run of games over the season’s finale.

The Dane appears to have emerged at the head of the pecking order for the left-sided central defensive slot at present, with Jackett suggesting he will benefit from a run of games.

That has left Jack Whatmough on the sidelines after his return from suspension, with the Gosport lad not getting on the pitch in the past three games.

It’s a move which has perplexed some supporters with some shaky displays at the back of late, and Sean Raggett coming in for criticism from some fans.

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It was a better defensive display, however, against Blackpool last weekend despite the 1-0 loss, and that was followed up with a clean sheet at Oxford United on Tuesday night.

Jackett said: ‘I think Sean and Rasmus are a good partnership.

‘I do rate Jack and he’s a good player, but for Rasmus the distribution and balance he gives on his left foot has helped the team.

‘While it is a very close decision between those three at the moment, it’s Raggett and Nicoliasen on the left.

‘I think he’s played well and it will be interesting to see how he develops with a regular run of games, because he’s not had as many as some of the others.

‘Others like Andy Cannon have shown that with a regular run you will improve.

‘I’ve been pleased with Nicolaisen. He’s stuck in there in terms of adapting to English football and being over here.

‘In recent games he’s played very well.’

In a season where he’s undoubtedly been among Pompey’s most consistent performers amid 24 appearances, Whatmough now finds himself waiting to get back into the team.

There’s plenty of support for the 24-year-old to be involved, but Jackett feels patience is what he requires at present

He added: ‘Jack is substitute at the moment after losing his place through suspension.

‘That does happen, but, as ever it will open up for him again.

‘He’s a good player, he just has to be ready to take the chance and keep that shirt when he does get the opportunity.’

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