Portsmouth man admits ‘frustration’ amid ongoing loan struggles – and vows to bounce back

Portsmouth loanee Makenzie Kirk has admitted his frustration after struggling for regular playing time during his season-long loan spell at Barnsley. The 22-year-old Northern Ireland Under-21 international scored an angled consolation goal as a half-time substitute in Barnsley's 2-1 defeat at Luton on Tuesday night. Despite finding game time difficult under manager Daniel Stendel, Kirk stated he remains focused on staying positive and earning consistent minutes.

The strike at Kenilworth Road marked Kirk's second goal in 10 appearances for Barnsley, as well as his first outing for the club since September 12. The defeat left Barnsley sitting 22nd in League One following five consecutive league losses, with Kirk hoping his scoring return will reopen first-team opportunities at Oakwell.