Portsmouth boss reacts to Rasmus Nicolaisen admitting he may leave in January - and prospect of FC Midtjylland recall

But the Blues boss believes he’s been justified in favouring Jack Whatmough and Sean Raggett in the battle to start in the middle of defence.

And Jackett underlined he viewed it a close-run race between the trio in the charge for the starting positions in the centre-back position.

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Nicolaisen returned to the bench for Tuesday’s disappointing loss against Blackpool at Bloomfield Road.

That followed the Dane admitting to The News on Saturday he was concerned over his lack of playing time this season, with a January recall clause in his loan deal.

Nicolaisen has made eight appearances since joining from FC Midtjylland in September, with five of those coming as starts.

Jackett stated he has no problem with the 24-year-old voicing his views, but the pair seemingly favoured at this moment have justified their places in the side.

The Pompey boss is fully aware how a recall from Midtjylland will disrupt his squad, but feels there’s plenty of considerations for him to weigh up in the coming weeks over who gets the nod.

Jackett said: ‘It’s an honest assessment, isn’t it (what Nicolaisen said). That’s what you have to do.

‘He will want to be in the side, but it’s not as if he’s not had any game time, though.

‘He’s had games and he’s had appearances for us and also Raggett and Whatmough have played very well for us.

‘For me, it’s quite a good competition and there’s form and fitness to consider.

‘The overall situation in January and the contract situation, these things happen to every football club.

‘For us, anyway, we’re pleased with all three of our centre-backs and their form.’

Of Jackett’s centre-back options, it’s clear Nicloaisen, Whatmough and Raggett are the main players in the frame to start, with Paul Downing once again frozen out of the equation.

It’s a similar story for James Bolton, who’s operated in the middle of defence at times, while midfielder Tom Naylor and Haji Mnoga offer versatile options.

Although offering different qualities, Jackett highlighted he doesn’t see a lot between the trio at the head of the queue.

He added: ‘It’s close between all three of them and I do think all three of them are good players.

‘As a club you need to make sure you have that sort of competition for places.

‘Rasmus gives balance and I thought he came back with a very good performance on Saturday. I was pleased with him.

‘We’re pleased with him. He’s a very committed player.

‘He’s committed to the cause and committed to the club and other players, which is good to see.

‘I do think he has a good future in the game.’

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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