Warning issued over Portsmouth first-team futures for struggling League One loan trio

Portsmouth sporting director Rich Hughes has warned loan trio Josh Knight, Hayden Matthews, and Makenzie Kirk to prove themselves in League One if they want a future at Pompey. The three players moved out on season-long loans during the summer transfer window in search of regular playing time, but they have managed just six league appearances combined.

Knight has dealt with an injury at Reading, while Matthews has been limited to cup outings at league-leading Bradford. Kirk has started seven times for Barnsley but was substituted at half-time in four matches. Hughes emphasized that the players must overcome competition and establish themselves at their loan clubs to perform at Portsmouth.