Portsmouth assistant urges QPR loanee Wheeler not to lose heart

The winger was given three minutes off the bench in place of Ronan Curtis during Saturday's 1-0 win at Bradford City.

It represented the QPR loanee's first appearance in six matches '“ a period which also saw him sidelined through injury.

Wheeler arrived at Fratton Park in August seeking regular first-team football, yet has been handed only two starts '“ neither arriving in the league.

Instead, the former Exeter talent has watched Jamal Lowe continue his excellent form.

And Joe Gallen doesn't want the 28-year-old to lose faith in his first-team chances.

Pompey's assistant boss said: '˜We say to all of the players to be ready and, when asked, to perform well.

'˜Dave is a very good player and someone we like very much.

'˜But with the team remaining unbeaten and Jamal Lowe playing very well, he can't get into the team.

'˜I think the frustrations are there, but Dave's not one of those guys.

'˜Some people do express their frustrations pretty clear. But when I have spoken to Dave he's said 'Jamal is doing so well'.

'˜If he felt Jamal wasn't doing too well I think he would be saying it, but he hasn't really said too much.

'˜He's looking at that position Jamal is in. That's where he plays and where he wants to play, so I think if he was to get an opportunity he wouldn't let us down.'