Bromley boss tells Portsmouth fans what to expect from ex-Charlton youngster Reeco Hackett-Fairchild

Bromley manager Neil Smith is confident the forward has the quality to make his mark at the Blues.

Hackett-Fairchild has had to remain patient since completing a move to Fratton Park in January, after scoring eight goals in 25 appearances for the non-league Ravens.

He’s made just one appearance for Kenny Jackett's side, while has been included in only two of 16 match-day squads.

Pompey were in discussions for the 21-year-old to return to Hayes Lane on loan before the campaign was suspended amid the coronavirus outbreak.

However, Hackett-Fairchild was purchased with a mid to long-term strategy in mind, having penned a two-and-a-half year deal and with the club holding an option for an additional 12 months.

Smith believes the Blues have been allowing the ex-Charlton man to acclimatise to his new League One surroundings.

And he has no qualms Hackett-Fairchild will take his chance when it comes.

Smith said: ‘It's difficult for anyone who signs during the January transfer window, especially as Portsmouth were doing well.

‘But it gives Reeco an idea of what he’s going into. For me, it was always looking ahead to next season.

‘It would have been frustrating for him because he'd done really well for us then has gone to a big club like Portsmouth where you've got to take in the surroundings.

‘It’s not a League One club he’s gone to, it’s a massive, massive club and you’ve got to earn the right to play.

‘The timing was to get used to things, see what Kenny Jackett is all about as a manager and get ready for pre-season.

‘He's a long-term project. When you are a young kid and flying, you have momentum and want to keep going so there is frustration in that respect.

‘Like any young player, he wants to play but Reeco has got to be patient, take his time and do what the manager wants to see.

‘The first thing Reeco wants to do is get at a player. He has dynamism, can play anywhere across the front three and he’s got a great left foot.

'He has still got a lot to improve on but, with his attitude, tenacity and desire, Portsmouth supporters will see a very dynamic, direct player that will give everything for that club.’

Bromley sold Hackett-Fairchild just six months after signing him last summer.

When Pompey came knocking, Smith couldn't stand in the former Dagenham man’s way.

He added: ‘I’m not surprised someone came in for him and it was a fantastic opportunity for the lad.

‘You saw the list of scouts coming to every game and Reeco seemed to be grabbing the headlines.

‘He’s a tall boy, strong, quick and got an eye for goal. The whispers started coming around that people were interested and you’re pleased for him, as well as the club, as we’d done something right.’