Town boss Mick McCarthy says Portsmouth can take Town defender Matt Clarke on loan if they want him, the 18-year-old having played for the League Two club on trial in a friendly against Coventry City this evening.
Clarke played the first 74 minutes as Pompey beat the Sky Blues 2-1 at Havant and Waterlooville’s Westleigh Park.
"I think he’s a very talented player and it was sad last year that he had to stick around and be sixth or seventh defender sometimes,” McCarthy said.
"I wasn’t really prepared to let him out because we haven’t got that much back-up, but he needs to play, so if Portsmouth do want him [he can go there on loan].
"He played tonight. [Town scout] Taff [Evans] has gone to watch him and we’ll see how he did. If they want him we’ll do something with him.”
McCarthy admits that there isn’t much defensive experience in his squad aside from his first-choice back four but says he’s in no rush to bring any other defenders in, even if Clarke moves to Fratton Park.
"There isn’t, but I like Josh [Emmanuel] and Myles [Kenlock]. I don’t think they’re going to keep us sustained for a season, but they could pop in and play on odd occasions. Jonny Parr’s to come back, of course.
"I like Josh Yorwerth, I think he’s done all right. I’m not rushing out and getting defenders if Clarkey goes on loan. We’ll see what we’ve got.”
However, he says he's still looking to augment his overall squad: "I’m happier where I am now going into this season than I was this time last year, but I’d like to add two or three new faces.”
In terms of trialists, McCarthy says no one is currently lined up to come in, but that he’d happily take a look at players he’s offered, having signed the likes of Kevin Bru, Adam McDonnell and Dylan Connolly after they impressed last summer.
"The front door’s open at Playford Road,” he added. "If any of them walk in, we’ll have a look at them.”