Kenny Jackett explains Portsmouth's loan plans for Haji Mnoga

The fledgling defender was set for a temporary switch to a National League side last month.

But a thigh scare sustained by James Bolton, coupled with Ross McCrorie's hamstring injury, meant Mnoga was put on standby for the FA Cup victory over Barnsley.

Both senior right-backs are now fully fit, however, and Mnoga himself has returned from a groin complaint.

That means a temporary move away from Fratton Park could again be in the offing, with the non-league transfer window closing on March 26.

But with the Blues locked in a League One promotion battle, as well as reaching the EFL Trophy semi-final and FA Cup fifth round, it means Mnoga may be required for the upcoming busy period.

Pompey manager Jackett said: ‘Haji is just coming back from a groin injury and has been training the past few days.

'We had planned to loan him out but it’s a balance because we do need to hold some players back.

‘It is something we considered. I haven’t necessarily made a decision yet as we’ve just got him back training, but it’s something that I need to think about.

‘It’s a bit of everything (to make the decision). I’ll see how the team goes, balance what the club needs, balance what the team needs and then combine the individuals after that.

‘I haven’t made my mind up at the moment and there are no loans pending.’

Mnoga was rewarded with his first professional contract in December, penning a one-and-a-half year deal at his hometown club.

The highly-regarded 17-year-old has made four appearances for Pompey, with all of them in the EFL Trophy.

However, Jackett believes Mnoga would be ready to perform in League One should he be required.

The boss added: ‘I do think he could play (in League One).

‘In the games he has played for us over the past two years – which is quite unusual with a youth-team player and has been fortunate with the cup competitions – he has done okay.

‘He’s not let anybody down and I do think he is capable of playing. Even in training in the past few days he's looked comfortable.’