Millwall boss addresses Portsmouth's interest in Ben Thompson - and Blues' chances of landing midfielder

The Fratton favourite is top of the Blues' wish list ahead of the summer transfer window shutting at 5pm on Friday.

Thompson enjoyed an outstanding loan spell at PO4 during the first half of the 2018-19 season, scoring three goals in 27 appearances.

As revealed by The News, Pompey have obstacles to overcome if they are to seal the 25-year-old's return, with boss Kenny Jackett admitting a swoop for Thompson is unlikely to be unsuccessful.

The Sidcup-born ace is keen to get out on loan for more game-time, though, and Millwall would be willing to sanction a move if they were able to bring in a replacement. Brighton’s Jayson Molumby is one option.

However, Championship clubs are also keen on Thompson. The London outfit would prefer for him to join a club in the second tier – not just for his development but for wage contribution reasons.

As things stand, Rowett insists the diminutive midfielder is staying at The Den and is a ‘valued member’ of the his squad despite Pompey’s enquiries.

But the Lions boss revealed if a player tells him they don’t want to be at the club, he will assess the situation accordingly.

Speaking to the South London Press, Rowett said: ‘I’ve seen a lot of speculation at the Portsmouth end and the reality is some of the headlines have over-played the situation a little bit.

‘They have obviously enquired because Thommo did really well for them and they’ve seen he has not been in our starting line-up for the league games, apart from the first one.

‘Thommo is a valued member of our squad who works incredibly hard. I thought he was really good in the first half against Burnley.

‘He wants to play at Millwall. But he also wants to play. I’m aware of that. There is no imminent plan but I always try to balance everything off.

‘If we end up making two or three signings, there will always be one or two who desperately want to play football.

‘I love Thommo as a lad. He’s a great character and solid member of our squad.

‘But I’m not imminently looking to get any of our players out on loan. Like I’ve said before there are three or four who probably haven’t played as much as they’d like.

'If any offers come in the window I’ll try and be honest with players. If a player comes and says they don’t want to be here and want to play, then if it is right for the everyone then we’ll sit down and have a conversation.

‘I think that goes for every club up and down the country – exactly the same will happen.’

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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