Brighton boss explains what's next for Portsmouth target after featuring on bench against Newcastle

The left-back featured on the bench for Brighton and Hove Albion in their goalless draw against Newcastle on Monday evening.

The point mathematically secured the Seagulls' Premier League safety for another season.

Cochrane was a surprise inclusion in Potter's squad. He's made just one first-team appearance previously, which was a 3-1 defeat at Aston Villa in the Carabao Cup back in September.

The England under-20 international is on the Blues' radar this summer, with head of recruitment Phil Boardman an admirer.

Cochrane has been training with Potter’s men since they returned after the suspension of the season and has made a decent impression on his boss.

He was named as a substitute against Newcastle to cover the absent Bernardo.

Now Brighton must decide what is next for Cochrane – with Pompey keen to take him on loan.

Speaking after the draw with Newcastle, Potter said: ‘Bernardo had an infection in his eye, so we drafted Alex in as a left-footed option.

‘He’s been with us throughout the lockdown period. He’s impressed and has a really good attitude.

‘I think he’s one of a few young players we need to sit down and think about the right pathway for him. He’s a good lad.’

Pompey currently have no senior left-back who is under contract at Fratton Park.

Lee Brown’s deal has expired and has been offered fresh terms. The vice-captain remains in negotiations with the club, having impressed in both legs in the League One play-off semi-final defeat to Oxford.

However, Brandon Haunstrup has left the club after turning down an improved contract.

The Waterlooville lad has been training with Scottish Premier League side Kilmarnock and featured in a 3-2 friendly win over Motherwell last week.

Meanwhile, Steve Seddon has returned to parent-club Birmingham following his fine loan spell during the second half of the campaign.

As reported by The News, Pompey are not currently in a position to make a permanent swoop for the Reading lad.

The only left-back that remains at Fratton Park is Joe Hancott.

The third-year scholar has featured three times for Kenny Jackett’s side and has until December to win a professional deal.