Bognor coach believes season-long loan would aid Pompey defender

Harry Kavanagh picks up the MoM award after Bognor's game with Worthing from members of the London & South East Rocks / Picture: Tommy McMillan

The Pompey Academy captain moved to Bognor on loan in December, making 11 appearances before Isthmian League premier division campaign was declared null and void amid the coronavirus crisis.

The right-back made encouraging progress at Nyewood Lane in his first experience outside of playing age-group football.

Kavanagh’s Blues apprenticeship is due to come to a close at the end of the campaign, although he could be offered third-year scholarship terms.

And if that’s the case, Blake feels the 18-year-old would benefit from an entire season on loan.

Blake said: "Harry has got a great engine and real quality with it, too. He comes into the category where he plays a full season with us.

"I understand he could dip in and out playing for the under-23s but it is so important for his development. A full season in the Isthmian League would do him a lot of good because he comes up against some really quick wingers with physicality.

"That's what he needs. Kav needs to grow now and grow into his body a bit more to become physically stronger. Naturally he would step up and would be playing against men. That's what he would get if he played for us. If he does get a new deal, has a great pre-season and gets himself into Kenny’s plans then that's great for the kid.

"But if he could be involved with us for a season then it’d be huge for his development. It's good education for these lads and if they do get the call-up they’ll have experience of playing with men."

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