Portsmouth's switch for Brighton left-back plunged into doubt

Alex Cochrane's move to Pompey is looking doubtful.
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However, it is understood that Brighton have hesitations over sending Cochrane to Fratton Park on loan if he's not going to be playing regularly.

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The vice-skipper is set to be first choice on the left-hand side of defence for the upcoming season.

Brown’s made 72 appearances since arriving from Bristol Rovers in 2018 and is someone who Kenny Jackett regards as a trusted leader.

Pompey see Cochrane initially coming in as deputy to the former QPR defender and battling for a starting spot.

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That’s something the Premier League outfit aren’t too keen on, however.

Brighton youngster Alex Cochrane. Picture: Alex Burstow/Getty ImagesBrighton youngster Alex Cochrane. Picture: Alex Burstow/Getty Images
Brighton youngster Alex Cochrane. Picture: Alex Burstow/Getty Images

The Seagulls ideally want the England under-20 international – who was on the bench for their goalless draw with Newcastle last month – featuring week in, week out to improve his development.

There is an argument that arriving at a big League One club in the Blues and coping with the pressures of a promotion push would help Cochrane.

But if the 20-year-old isn’t going to be handed consistent minutes then a switch is unlikely.

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Pompey will be keen to add another left-back to their ranks before the season starts on September 12, however.

Brown is currently the only senior option that Jackett has available.

Brandon Haunstrup turned down a new deal to join Kilmarnock, while Steve Seddon has returned to Birmingham following his impressive loan spell during the second half of last term.

Joe Hancott, 19, has returned to the club to complete his third-year scholarship following an ACL injury.

He has until December to win a professional contract.