Kenny Jackett addresses Ben Close's Portsmouth future following arrival of Spurs starlet

Kenny Jackett has reassured Ben Close that he remains in his plans following a Pompey midfield shake up.
Ben Close has largely been overlooked for Pompey's starting XI this season, usually finding himself on the bench. Picture: Graham Hunt/ProSportsImagesBen Close has largely been overlooked for Pompey's starting XI this season, usually finding himself on the bench. Picture: Graham Hunt/ProSportsImages
Ben Close has largely been overlooked for Pompey's starting XI this season, usually finding himself on the bench. Picture: Graham Hunt/ProSportsImages
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Like Morris, Close has also found himself out of favour, although remained a constant on the substitutes’ bench.

Nonetheless, the former first-team regular has started just two League One matches this season, totalling 13 outings in all competitions.

However, Jackett is adamant there is still a place for Close.

The Blues boss told The News: ‘Not a lot changes for Ben, at the moment he has been substitute on a regular basis.

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‘I would anticipate tomorrow night (AFC Wimbledon) that will be exactly the same.

‘Ben’s pushing to get into the team and is well capable of both getting into the side and being able to hold his place when he gets there. He has shown that over the last few years.

‘The form of Naylor and Cannon have stopped him, but I always say you can’t be at a club like Pompey and be the only player in your position.

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‘There’s going to be competition - and there needs to be. There needs to be cover, there needs to be competition to be successful.’

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Close has made 175 appearances and scored 17 goals since his debut in the 2014-15 campaign.

He was a regular in Pompey’s midfield during Jackett’s opening three years in charge.

Although was surprisingly omitted from the squad for Pompey’s two-legged semi-final League One play-off encounter with Oxford United in July.

This term, Tom Naylor and Andy Cannon have established themselves in the Blues’ midfield and are in fine form.

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Close’s most recent outing was last week’s 5-1 defeat at Peterborough in the Papa John’s Trophy.

His Pompey contract expires in the summer, although the club possess an option to extend it by 12 months.

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