Portsmouth advanced to the semi-finals of the Leasing.com trophy on Tuesday evening after a hard fought 2-1 win over Scunthorpe United at Fratton Park.

Goals from John Marquis and Cameron McGeehan either side of half time ensured of Pompey's place in the last four of the competition. They find out who their next opponents are on Saturday evening when the semi-final draw takes place.

The win also means that Pompey could be just one match away from a Wembley final for the second consecutive year, after winning the trophy last season against Sunderland on penalties.

Putting the result aside, 23-year-old Jack Whatmough made his return to the starting XI for the first time in almost a year, and got through the full ninety minutes without any qualms.

Whatmough last turned out for Pompey last February, suffering a serious knee injury against Doncaster Rovers.

The central defender looked back to his best under the lights at Fratton Park, putting in a solid performance for the team at the heart of the back line.

He took to Twitter to show his delight:

 

QUIZ: Can you remember the last fourteen Portsmouth men to wear the No. 9  shirt?

Pompey midfielder Tom Naylor and current Bristol Rovers defender Tareiq Holmes-Dennis - who was also at Portsmouth briefly on loan for one season - also showed their support for the 23-year-old.

The Verdict

Whatmough has made the bench for Pompey's last two league fixtures, but failed to come on both times.

The 23-year-old completing ninety minutes in a competitive fixture will be a huge boost for Kenny Jackett going forward, as cover in central defence has proved a problem this season.

The defender looked assured on Tuesday, stepping up well from his last outing for Portsmouth's reserves against Plymouth Argyle at Home Park.

Whatmough will be hoping to kick on now for the remainder of the campaign, and show the fans what they have been missing.