Loan star open to Pompey stay

And the on-loan West Brom midfielder has backed the Michael Appleton effect to now start making its mark on the Blues.

Thorne insists he is willing to stay at Fratton Park for the campaign, after an impressive opening to his time at the club.

Appleton was quick to bring the 18-year-old in from his former club, along with Joe Mattock, after moving south from the Hawthorns.

Thorne has provided a calming influence in midfield in his two Pompey matches to date and shown an eye for a pass in a couple of intelligent displays.

He says there is more to come from him, however, as he gets more playing time under his belt.

Thorne’s current loan agreement runs until January 2 – but he has already made it clear he would be happy to extend that stay.

He said: ‘Minutes are what I need. I was itching to get out and play.

‘I’m lacking a bit of match sharpness but I’m getting the minutes and experience I need under my belt.

‘Hopefully that will benefit me in the long run.

‘I’m enjoying it here. There’s a great set of fans and a great set of lads.

‘I’ve been here a couple of weeks now and I’m looking forward to the rest of my time here.

‘The loan is until January 2. If West Brom want to recall me they can do that on December 28.

‘I’ve no idea how it will pan out. We’ll have to see what the case is at West Brom and the case is here nearer that time.

‘But I’m enjoying my football and, hopefully, I can push on and be a part of a few more wins.

‘Hopefully come January we’ll review things. I’d be more than happy to stay and help Appy and the rest of the lads.’

Thorne knows all about Appleton and his influence after being brought through the ranks under his guidance with the Baggies.

The teenage talent highlighted Appleton’s hunger to succeed and driven personality as key qualities he possesses.

The 36-year-old registered the first win of his managerial career against Coventry on Saturday.

Despite the problems off the pitch, Thorne feels the fans will now begin to see Appleton’s impact on the team.

Thorne said: ‘Appy’s a good man. He’s been a massive influence. He’s been my main coach since under-18s.

‘He brought me through as a schoolboy and I have to give him credit. I possibly wouldn’t be here without some of the things he taught me.

‘He’s got a very strong will to succeed.

‘I think you will now see that start to rub off on other people around the club in the weeks and months to come.

‘His career was cut short so I think there is an eagerness and willingness to go and show what he can do on the manager side of things.

‘He has come through the set-up at West Brom and now he has his chance at Portsmouth.

‘It’s a great club and it’s a massive club. Now this is a chance for him to test himself.

‘The players are going to back him 100 per cent in doing that.’