Pompey Academy skipper earns Bognor backing

That is the view of Pompey Academy coach Mikey Harris, who has backed the Blues’ under-18s skipper to thrive at Nyewood Lane.

Right-back Davies has made one appearance for Paul Cook’s first team this season – a 2-0 debut defeat to Exeter in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy in September.

But with a professional contract on the line at Fratton Park this summer, senior football has become a priority for the highly-regarded second-year scholar.

A spell at National League South Hawks earlier in the season gave Davies a taste of life at non-league level.

And Harris believes his switch to the Rocks – which lasts until the end of the season – is a win-win scenario for all parties.

Indeed, the link-up between Pompey and Bognor is nothing new.

First-year professionals Snorre Nilsen and Chad Field – Academy team-mates of Davies last season – are established in Jamie Howell’s starting XI at Ryman League premier division level.

Harris said: ‘We have a good relationship with Bognor.

‘Chad and Snorre are already there and Jamie Howell and Jack Pearce (general manager) have been to a few of our development games this season.

‘They have seen Calvin and he has been on their radar.

‘They like him and after knowing he had been at the Hawks earlier in the season, they approached us to see if he would be available.

‘Bognor have a very busy fixture schedule between now and the end of the season and have a light squad.

‘They are on an FA Trophy run and have a backlog of games in the league.

‘They are in a great position in the league and have a really good chance of getting promoted as well.

‘It is an ideal opportunity for Calvin to go into a squad which is competing for promotion at a decent level.’

Familiar faces, although not necessary, will also help the 18-year-old adapt to his new environment – and Harris is predicting big things from the Blues’ youth-team skipper.

Harris added: ‘He goes there with two players he knows very well in Chad and Snorre, who can help him to get integrated with the lads – not that Calvin needs that!

‘He acts like a professional but is only 18, sometimes you forget that.

‘Calvin’s attitude is to give absolutely everything to everything he does.

‘And I am sure he will do that for Bognor and help them to be successful.’

Pompey Academy are on friendly duty this Saturday when they travel to face Barnet, following the conclusion of their Youth Alliance League south west division season.

– JEFF MARSHMAN