Millwall manager Gary Rowett has his say on Portsmouth loan link to Ben Thompson

Millwall manager Gary Rowett says there are no “imminent” plans to loan out Ben Thompson.

Portsmouth are keen on bringing the 25-year-old midfielder back to Fratton Park on loan.

Thompson was a huge hit on the South Coast in the first half of the 2018-19 campaign before being recalled by then Den chief Neil Harris.

But the Lions academy product has struggled for Championship minutes this season.

Rowett said: “I’ve seen a lot of speculation at the Portsmouth end and the reality is some of the headlines have over-played the situation a little bit.

“They have obviously enquired because Thommo did really well for them and they’ve seen he has not been in our starting line-up for the league games, apart from the first one.

“Thommo is a valued member of our squad who works incredibly hard. I thought he was really good in the first half against Burnley.

“He wants to play at Millwall. But he also wants to play. I’m aware of that. There is no imminent plan but I always try to balance everything off. If we end up making two or three signings, there will always be one or two who desperately want to play football.

“I love Thommo as a lad. He’s a great character and solid member of our squad.

“But I’m not imminently looking to get any of our players out on loan. Like I’ve said before there are three or four who probably haven’t played as much as they’d like.

“If any offers come in the window I’ll try and be honest with players. If a player comes and says they don’t want to be here and want to play, then if it is right for the everyone then we’ll sit down and have a conversation.

“I think that goes for every club up and down the country – exactly the same will happen.”

PICTURES: BRIAN TONKS