Major Adrian Segečić decision revealed ahead of Portsmouth’s south-coast derby

Adrian Segečić will remain with Croatia Under-21s during the international break despite the national side already securing their place at next summer’s European Championship.

Croatia boss Ivica Olić has given two members of his squad permission to return to their clubs early, but Portsmouth attacker Segečić has not been granted the same break.

The young Vatreni booked their place at next summer’s tournament with a 3-1 victory over Hungary last weekend. They still have qualifiers against Ukraine and Lithuania to come during the current international window.

With qualification already secured, Olić has allowed Hajduk Split defender Simun Hrgovic and Watford midfielder Branimir Mlacic to leave the camp early. Neither player is believed to be dealing with an injury, with Hrgovic reportedly returning to prepare for Hajduk’s upcoming derby against Dinamo Zagreb.

Segečić, meanwhile, remains part of the Croatia squad and is expected to feature again.

The 22-year-old started on the left wing and played 70 minutes in the victory over Hungary, making his third appearance for the Under-21 side since switching his international allegiance earlier this year.

He has already played nine matches for club and country this season, including all eight of Portsmouth’s games so far. The attacking midfielder has also contributed two goals and an assist as he continues the impressive form that saw him finish as Pompey’s leading scorer last campaign.

That makes his availability particularly important for John Mousinho, with Portsmouth preparing to face bitter rivals Southampton in the south-coast derby.

Mousinho would undoubtedly have welcomed the opportunity to have Segečić back early, just as Hrgovic and Mlacic have been allowed to return to their clubs.

However, Pompey supporters will have to wait a little longer, with Segečić currently not expected to rejoin his club until Wednesday, October 7.