'Hungry to impress the Portsmouth faithful' - Bromley boss discusses Reeco Hackett-Fairchild's loan spell

Reeco Hackett-Fairchild has returned to Pompey a better player than when he arrived a year ago.
Pompey forward Reeco Hackett-Fairchild.Picture: Kieran CleevesPompey forward Reeco Hackett-Fairchild.Picture: Kieran Cleeves
Pompey forward Reeco Hackett-Fairchild.Picture: Kieran Cleeves

That is the verdict of Bromley boss Neil Smith, who’s adamant the forward’s come on leaps and bounds in the past 12 months.

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The former Charlton man arrived at the Blues for an undisclosed fee in January 2020 but has made just one appearance to date.

He rejoined Bromley in September to get regular minutes under his belt. He duly impressed, recording two goals and two assists in 12 appearances in their National League play-off push.

Kenny Jackett now has to weigh up whether to keep Hackett-Fairchild at Pompey or send him back out on loan.

And despite what decision is taken, Smith believes the 22-year-old has made significant improvements.

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He told The News: ‘Reeco had a little niggly injury when he arrived which took a bit of time. Because he'd had such a long time without playing, we wanted to make sure he could have a sustained run in the team.

‘Like he's always done, he got his head down, waited for his chance and took it.

‘I think he was a little bit low when he came in. He's gone to a massive club like Portsmouth and all he wants to do is play football.

‘It was a great opportunity but chances were few and far between and Kenny got his team playing a certain way so he came to us a bit down and disheartened.

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‘But his work ethic and attitude have been second to none. Reeco is so hungry to play for Portsmouth, impress Kenny and the Pompey faithful.

‘He's been an absolute pleasure. He's been getting stronger and stronger and in the last few games he really established himself.

‘Reeco scored a great goal against Maidenhead and then was awarded man of the match on BT Sport against Solihull where he could have scored.

‘Reeco is a better player now than when he left us to join Pompey. He's stronger mentally and had to deal with the knockbacks he's had.

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‘Some guys just sulk but Reeco knows he's got to work hard and is willing to do it. This time last year, he left to go to Portsmouth and now he's a better player.’

And Smith is highly keen for the ex-Boreham Wood ace to return to Bromley.

He added: ‘We'd love to have him back. He's an asset to our squad and to himself as well.

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‘We would be getting a player who's coming back, fit and ready to go.’

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