Ben Thompson's return to Millwall in January was possibly the best thing to come from the transfer window for The Lions.

Having spent the first half of the season on loan at Portsmouth, Neil Harris wasted no time in bringing the 23-year-old back to The Den and thrusting him straight in to his starting XI where he has shone.

Millwall’s gain has undoubtedly been Portsmouth’s loss, a view echoed by Pompey manager Kenny Jackett.

“There’s not many Ben Thompsons lying around,” said the former Millwall boss.

Since leaving Fratton Park, Portsmouth who were top when Thompson left, have slipped to third having picked up just one point from four league games.

Portsmouth were busy in the window, but losing Thompson has left a mark on Jackett and a void in his side.

“Ben Thompson is a standout (loss to Portsmouth).

“In terms of midfield, we have to come up with the answer as a unit better.

“As much as finding someone to build into the influence Ben had is what’s wanted, as a unit we want to be as strong as we possibly can.”

READ: Harris left scathing at transfer window and the attitude of players today

Since arriving back at Millwall, Thompson has started the league games against Middlesbrough and Rotherham having been illegible for the 3-2 victory over Everton in the FA Cup.

The work he put in on his stint on the south coast has not gone unnoticed by his Lions teammates and they believe he’s returned a better player for his loan spell.

“He came back in great form after being with Portsmouth and they’re struggling now without him,” Millwall midfielder Shaun Williams told News at Den.

“He has continued from where he left off and he brings added quality to the squad.

“He seems as though he’s settled in straightaway and to be enjoying himself so far,”

Thompson has held down a midfield place alongside Williams and Ryan Leonard since his return, and on playing with Thompson, Williams said:

“I think it’s more compact in the middle, there are more options to pass it instead of looking for a direct approach. I thoroughly enjoy it.”

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