The Portsmouth player who has now player of the season plaudits within reach

The Blues defender, who’s been in outstanding form under the Cowleys, can nail down the end-of-season accolades by continuing his current level of performance.

That’s the view of sports writer, Jordan Cross, in the latest episode of Pompey Talk, which you can download HERE.

Whatmough was once more excellent, picking up man-of-the-match recognition in the 0-0 draw at Crewe on Tuesday night.

Cross believes the 24-year-old’s resurgence has been one of the feelgood stories of the Pompey campaign.

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And the Gosport man can continue that by gaining some personal silverware if he maintains his current standards.

Cross said: ‘He was a colossus on Tuesday, outstanding.

‘For my money, the player of the season trophy is his to go out and grasp now.

‘If you’re looking at contenders, Sean Raggett at times was getting on a run which could have played himself into contention.

‘But there’s been too many mistakes and, given it’s a supporter vote, he’s probably not popular enough with the fans.

‘There’s Tom Naylor, too, who’s been really consistent but maybe looking just a bit leggy of late.

‘Then there’s Jack who’s really kicked on and played every minute under the Cowleys.

It’s a great story for him to play 36 games this season given the problems he’s had with his injuries.

‘He’s answered those questions, which is brilliant to see.

‘His levels in and out of possession have been outstanding and improving.

‘I don’t see any reason if he continues to kick on across these final six games that he can’t nail down the player of the season plaudits.’

Danny Cowley told The News this week he believes Whatmough is a Championship player in waiting, with his existing deal up in the summer.

That situation is one being watched closely by fans who don’t want to lose the academy graduate.

Cross added: ‘It wasn’t too long ago he wasn’t seen as being in contention, it was Downing and Raggett - but Jack has come through and proven his value.

‘The glowing reference from Danny Cowley was a real breakdown of his assets.

‘He thinks there’s areas he can improve, hold the defensive line and perhaps become a leader.

‘Maybe that’s the challenge to stop being the young lad who came through the ranks and, at 24, become the man and leader he can be - for Portsmouth hopefully.

‘He’s out of contract but Cowley says he’s a Championship player in waiting - for someone.’

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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