Ben Thompson makes frank Portsmouth January admission - and potential future away from Millwall

And the midfielder conceded he's prepared to leave Millwall if he is again reduced to a bit-part role.

Thompson remains a firm favourite among the Fratton faithful – despite departing more than two years ago.

He enjoyed a scintillating loan spell during the first half of the 2018-19 season where he scored three goals in 29 appearances.

The Blues came close to prising the 25-year-old back to the south coast in the summer, while they kept tabs on him ahead of the winter window opening.

However, Millwall boss Gary Rowett stressed Thompson wouldn't be leaving the Den despite his lack of game-time.

The Sidcup-born ace has recently thrust his way into Rowett's plans, though.

He started the Lions' past five games before coming on at half-time to score a fine goal in their 4-1 win over Sheffield Wednesday last week.

Speaking to the South London Press, Thompson revealed that moving to Pompey last month was an option.

He said: ‘There was always that in the back of my mind (about rejoining Pompey).

‘But I said to the manager that I want to play at Millwall. This is my club. Next season will be my 10th year here. I want to play week in and week out at Millwall.

‘Obviously he can’t guarantee that, but I want to play games.

‘I’m 25 and in my prime, I feel like I need that. If he can’t guarantee me that then I’ll have to go elsewhere.

‘It came towards the last week of the window and I had got back in the team and started playing, so that kind of squashed the loan move.

‘I’m hoping to play more and more games for Millwall.

‘Everyone knows me – I love Millwall and I love playing for the club. To be left out is gutting, for any player.

‘But I managed to get myself on the pitch and show what I’m about, not that he doesn’t know.

‘I wanted to show why I deserve the shirt week in and week out. I don’t think I could have come on and done much more.’

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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