Kenny Jackett's message to midfielder amid Portsmouth's pursuit of Millwall's Ben Thompson

The midfielder has featured in all eight of the Blues’ games so far this season.

However, only one of his appearances has been a League One start, with the other coming in Tuesday night’s 3-0 win at Southend in the EFL Trophy.

Tom Naylor and Bryn Morris have been Jackett’s preferred pairing in the engine room, while Michael Jacobs and Marcus Harness have operated in the number-10 role.

Pompey are actively looking to recruit a fresh midfielder before the transfer window closes next Friday.

Fratton favourite Thompson is the Blues’ number-one target.

Pompey are keen on the Millwall man’s return, following an outstanding loan spell at PO4 during the first half of the 2018-19 campaign.

Should Thompson be prised back to PO4, it would likely make Cannon’s chances of becoming a regular starter even more difficult.

However, the Blues boss stressed the ex-Rochdale man will remain a ‘vital member’ of his squad no matter what happens.

Jackett said: ‘Andy has come on as a substitute in six games and started at Rochdale and Southend.

‘He's had plenty of game time and plenty of minutes.

‘Would he like to have a regular starting spot? Yes, of course, he would. That is what he's working hard towards.

‘Similarly, there haven't been many games he's not been involved in this season – even if it is from the bench.

‘He is a key player and a vital part of the group.

‘Andy complements those guys who are playing. He's come on in a high number of games and is going to be a key member of the group this year.’

The majority of Cannon’s appearances for Pompey have been in an attacking role.

However, he operated as a holding midfielder at Southend, catching the eye with his dribbling and energy.

Jackett's opted for more naturally forward-thinking players in the number-10 position in Jacobs and Harness this term.

The Blues manager feels they’re more capable of notching goals and assists on a regular basis.

As a result, Cannon’s likely to feature more frequently in a deeper role when he does play.

Jackett added: ‘I think Andy can play both positions. In the number-10 role, you do need goals and assists out of that player.

‘If you're a midfielder then the game is a little bit more straightforward when dropping back into the middle.

‘You then have to do all the things a midfield player has to do – pick up second balls, pass the ball, get around the pitch and close players down well.

‘Sometimes it can be a difficult job the number-10 role.’

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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