Thompson happy to be Pompey's midfield enforcer

NATHAN THOMPSON is happy to carry on being Pompey's midfield enforcer.
Nathan Thompson has operated in midfield in recent games Picture: Joe PeplerNathan Thompson has operated in midfield in recent games Picture: Joe Pepler
Nathan Thompson has operated in midfield in recent games Picture: Joe Pepler

The defender has told how he’s adapting to his new role of providing the Blues’ muscle in the middle of the park.

Thompson has been used in the position in the past two games, after a successful shift there against Scunthorpe last month.

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Despite not having any specific experience of playing in a two-man midfield, the 27-year-old has shone.

Thompson said: ‘It’s different.

‘It’s a position I flirted with when I was at Swindon.

‘At Swindon we played a back three and when the ball went forward I stepped out and became a holding midfielder.

‘It’s not too dissimilar and with age as well you start to understand different positions on the pitch.

‘I haven’t really played in a two-man midfield like we’ve used, but it’s something I enjoy doing.

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‘I like using my body, putting it on the line and getting among it. I like using my physicality a little bit.

‘I’m happy to play anywhere I can help the team.’

Thompson is set to continue in the position against Blackburn, where he’ll be tasked with keeping their top scorer, Bradley Dack, quiet.

He added: ‘Blackburn will be a good test for me with Bradley Dack sitting in that number 10 role.

‘He’ll get between us and the back line, but I’m confident in my ability in that position.

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‘In the first game we dealt with that particular issue quite well.

‘It suits my particular style of game to get about and ratting among the players who are capable of creating something.

‘It’s important that I try to do that against Blackburn.’