Striker set for more Portsmouth disappointment in Papa John's Trophy final

Since arriving on a free transfer in October, the striker's been down the Pompey pecking order. He's made only 11 appearances in all competitions, scoring three goals.

Hiwula's most impressive performances have arrived in the Papa John's Trophy, though, and he bagged a double in a 3-0 win at Cheltenham before Christmas.

However, the Wembley showpiece against Salford City tomorrow is to claim 2019-20 season crown. The encounter has been delayed almost a year amid the coronavirus crisis.

With the Blues in wretched form, winning just once in seven games, Kenny Jackett’s set to name a full-strength line-up to face the League Two Ammies.

Pompey’s boss is keen to restore confidence into his players ahead of crunch games against League One promotion rivals Peterborough and Ipswich next week.

And although Jackett’s been pleased with Hiwula’s recent substitute cameos in loses to Doncaster and Northampton, either John Marquis or Ellis Harrison will lead the line at the national stadium.

Jackett said: ‘I think Jordy has been unlucky and made a couple of good sub appearances of late which I've been pleased with, so he's in there competing for the four forward positions.

‘We've waited a long time for this final and want to try to finish off strong and win at Wembley.

‘It'll be a hard one as Salford have a very established team with many players with experience who've played higher.

‘It'll be a tough nut to crack for us. We want to win the competition and the performance and result that will take us into Peterborough and Ipswich.

‘We have to really work hard now otherwise our season will get away.’

Hiwula’s Fratton Park contract expires at the end of the season.

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