Portsmouth boss tackles subject of Ben Close being out of favour as homegrown talent remains on sidelines.

But the Pompey midfielder has been told his time will come as he remains outside of the Blues’ starting XI.

The 24-year-old has been restricted to just 51 minutes of league football this term and a start in the EFL Trophy win at Southend.

That return follows on from 44 appearances last season in the curtailed campaign and 168 outings at Fratton Park to date.

Bryn Morris was favoured in a 4-2-3-1 formation in early fixtures, with Jackett then switching to a 4-4-2 and using Andy Cannon alongside Tom Naylor.

The Pompey boss acknowledged that change has gone against the Southsea talent and he has some sympathy for his player.

He said: ‘It’s close between all four midfield players so far this season.

‘Ben Close has been the most unlucky so far.

‘He’s had the least game time and, if there’s anyone, I do feel for him.

‘I do feel sorry for him and he’s had the least amount of game time so far out of everybody.

‘Bryn’s had a good run and is substitute at the moment and Andy Cannon’s had plenty of games and minutes through the course of the season.

‘But, for Ben, he’s been the one I feel sorry for because he’s not necessarily done a lot wrong.

‘I’ve spoken to him about that and it’s important as well.

‘For Ben, he needs to keep going and know he’s not far away in my thoughts.’

Jackett underlined he certainly has never issue in turning to Close if necessary, and he’s not lost faith in the man who made his Pompey bow in 2014.

And with the games continuing to come thick and fast through November, there’s every chance he will soon be called upon.

Jackett added: ‘He’s been unlucky and I certainly would’t hesitate to use him.

‘He’s been a good player and a good pro in my time and he’s itching to get playing.

‘Wth the amount of games we have coming up, the fact is we need a squad.

‘I don’t want injuries to come, but we are going to need everyone over the course of the season.

‘He’s a good player and I’m sure as well that when he gets the shirt he’s the sort of player who can hold on to it.

‘He’s a really good pro and I know he will continue to prepare himself, work hard for the group and the team when called upon.’

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

The News has launched a new subscription offer which gives you unlimited access to all of our Pompey coverage.

You can subscribe here to get the latest news and transfer updates from Fratton Park - and to support our local team of expert Pompey writers.