Blues keen for bright hope Mingi to stay put

DANNY COWLEY insists

Jay Mingi has a Fratton Park future.

Pompey are favouring extending the 21-year-old’s stay, having impressed during his maiden season on the south coast.

The former Charlton and West Ham youngster has made just two appearances from the bench since arriving on a free transfer in September.

However, an encouraging loan spell at Maidenhead – which prompted Wrexham to bid for his services – coupled with progress on the training pitch, has convinced Cowley to keep the midfielder.

Although out of contract in the summer, Pompey possess an option, enabling them to extend Mingi’s, below, stay by an additional 12 months, while the Blues may instead opt to table fresh terms.

Regardless, Cowley has made it clear he wants to retain the promising performer.

He told The News :‘Jayis talented and can be whatever he wants to be.

‘He has some attributes that we can’t give, such as pace, power, the ability to cover the ground and put the fires out.

‘He’s very good in the defensive transition and we are working hard on his technical ability off both feet, receiving and passing skills, his tactical understanding of how to receive the ball and how to find his own space.

‘Like I have said to Jay on numerous occasions, he likes the thought of being a professional - if he really wants it he has to dedicate and commit to it.

‘I like to keep all my young players who are on an upward curve, like Jay is.

‘I am a coach that likes working with young players. I like the energy and enthusiasm they bring and the favourite part of my job is helping them develop and improve.’

Mingi’s most recent firstteam involvement came at the weekend, when he was introduced as a 74th-minute substitute for midfielder Louis Thompson in the 3-1 victory over Gillingham at Fratton Park.

However, he has been named among Pompey’s substitutes in 13 of their last 14 League One fixtures – and will be hoping for more outings in the final two games.