Since suffering a cruciate injury in March against Cheltenham Town, Jack Whatmough has started a long road to recovery. The 18-year-old academy product's injury unfortunately came at a time where he was just getting back in the team.

The personal disappointment of the injury also coincided with yet another underwhelming campaign for his club, but has pledged to stay mentally strong. The teenager underwent surgery five weeks ago and has now started enhancing his rehabilitation.

"I've been okay mentally. I've felt a bit stiff, but that will happen, it’s how you deal with it. I'm not going to dwell on it. I've got good people around me, great physios and my family, who have stuck by me." The Pompey defender told Portsmouth.co.uk. “I need to stay mentally strong and get back on the pitch."

Whatmough has also drawn inspiration from fellow teammate Wes Fogden, who suffered a similar injury and made a full recovery.

"It's a serious injury I'm not going to rush. If I'm back next season at some point I'd be happy. Look at Foggy. He came back fine. If I can do that it would be great."

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About the author
Rhys Tompkins
Aspiring football writer. Football League writer for VAVEL UK.