Portsmouth youngster Gerard Storey hoping to finally get first-team chance after Covid test ruled him out of West Ham clash

Now the 18-year-old is determined to make up for lost time as he targets an outing against Cheltenham in the Papa John’s Trophy on Tuesday night.

Blues boss Kenny Jackett handed maiden starts to academy products Harry Kavanagh, Charlie Bell and Alfie Stanley for the visit of West Ham’s under-21s in the final group game of the competition at Fratton Park.

Harvey Rew and Eoin Teggart were also handed rare spots in a startling line-up that included 11 changes to the side that beat Ipswich in the FA Cup just three days previous.

Meanwhile, Harry Jewitt-White, Harrison Brook and Seok Jae Lee made their senior debuts as second-half substitutes.

Northern Ireland youth international Storey was also scheduled to be among the youngsters who featured against the Hammers.

However, he was denied the chance after developing coronavirus systems in the build-up to the game.

A negative result hours after the tie finished added to the midfielder’s frustration.

However, Storey – who has been on loan at Gosport Borough this season – is hoping to finally get his chance against the Robins as Jackett’s prepares to take the Blues to Whaddon Road.

The teenager told Belfast Live: ‘It was so frustrating (missing out against West Ham).

‘I live with two other fellas, and we started getting some Covid symptoms so had to get tested.

‘My test came back negative, but I didn't get the results until 11pm on the night of the game against West Ham.

‘It has sort of been the story of my season so far. And it has been difficult to build any momentum.

‘I am hoping to get the nod for next week's game.

‘It has been frustrating, but with the current situation regarding Covid it is difficult to plan things. Everything can change on a daily basis.

‘We are just taking it day by day and seeing how it goes.

‘I believe Gosport are back training, so there may be scope for me to go back there on loan.

‘But at the minute I am hoping to get a chance next Tuesday in the EFL Trophy. That would be a big shop window for me to go out and show what I can do.

‘I have been training away, but you need that match fitness and sharpness. And it is difficult for the manager to throw a player into a league game who isn't fully up to speed.

‘I love playing football every day, but you want to be playing games. And hopefully I can get some game time next week and kick on.

‘I have had to be patient this season, and will continue to be. It has been a frustrating year, but it has been a strange year for everyone.’

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