Kenny Jackett rules out permanent Portsmouth return for Nathan Thompson
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The right-back was this morning a surprise training ground presence after electing to quit Fratton Park in the summer.
Thompson cited Championship ambition when he turned down a fresh Blues contract – yet is still to find a club.
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Hide AdHaving left on good terms with Jackett, the 28-year-old has been allowed to bolster his fitness by training with his former employers.
It was a request from Thompson that Pompey’s boss was willing to grant.
Although, with Anton Walkes and James Bolton vying for the right-back spot, Jackett has stressed re-joining the club is not under consideration.
He said: ‘Nathan is somebody I have a lot of time for on a personal level and, if I can help him, I will.
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Hide Ad‘Obviously, he is looking for a club, he has been to one or two places without signing but, on the days it suits us, he can come in for some general training.
‘He approached me. I spoke to him on Wednesday and asked how he was getting on and after that chat he welcomed training with us.
‘There isn’t anything permanent for him – we have Anton Walkes in the side at the moment and James Bolton nearing fitness with an ankle injury.
‘While I don't think James will make it this weekend, I would anticipate him training Monday or Tuesday and being fit for Sunderland.
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Hide Ad‘You can have three right-backs in a squad, but it’s better to try to distribute it.
‘I always feel if you need extras it’s centre-forwards and goalkeepers, then after that there are certain positions where if you get an unusual amount of injuries other people can play – and right-back is one of them.
‘There are midfield players and others who can play that position, I do feel we are well covered.’
Thompson was Jackett’s first signing of his Pompey managerial career in June 2017.
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Hide AdThe former Swindon defender went on to amass 78 appearances and one goal during his two Fratton Park seasons.
Last month he appeared as a triallist for Bristol City’s under-23 side, yet wasn’t taken on.
Jackett added: ‘I am happy to help. Obviously he is looking for a club, he is not dictated to by deadlines, windows or anything like that.
‘He's somebody I have a lot of time for, if I can help him with a few sessions towards his end goal – which is his next club – then I am happy to do that.’
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