Utaka keen to move forward as a centre-forward
John Utaka has vowed to prove his Premier League worth as a centre-forward.
And he insists he wants to remain at Fratton Park to show it.
The Nigeria international is ripe for a transfer with a summer Blues clear-out imminent.
Rennes and Bordeaux have already been linked with bringing the 27-year-old back to France.
Despite his Pompey disappointments, Utaka would still command a substantial fee, with his stock still high across the channel.
But he has no intention of turning on his heels and fleeing.
Instead, the 7m recruit insists he wants to stay on the south coast and finally start reproducing the form which has been largely lacking.
Harry Redknapp had high hopes for Utaka after bringing him from Rennes in the summer of 2007 to operate wide on the right.
Some 58 games later, Pompey fans are still waiting for him to deliver on a consistent basis.
But there have been glimpses and he ended the campaign in eye-catching form after being switched to his preferred striking role.
Those displays earned him a recall to Nigeria's squad for their friendly against the Republic of Ireland at Craven Cottage on Friday.
And it's in that position where he really believes he can finally thrive.
He said: 'I am contracted to the club for another two years and I want to stay, definitely.
'I was back in the side at the end of the season, it was good being part of things again and I'm enjoying that.
'I want to play up front, that is where I prefer, and Paul Hart seemed to recognise that.
'He encouraged me and helped me and I thank him for that.
'Up front is a position I know I can do well in.
'I have been playing out wide most of the time for Portsmouth, but I know I can deliver a little more to the team as a striker.
'When I play up front I have more opportunity to do more for the team because I am not restricted.
'I am allowed that freedom which I enjoy. When I play on the right I put the crosses in and go at the defence, but it's a bit difficult because there really is not that much room in front of you.
'For me, as striker you can go where you like, there is boundless opportunities. That's where I prefer.
'I want to be a striker for this football club and I want to stay and show the fans I can do that next season.'
It's not just Utaka who believes he has a striking future – Pompey's coaching staff share the same opinion.
They have spent the latter part of the season trying to convert the former Rennes man back into a centre-forward – having previously been switched to the right wing by Redknapp.
Their input has unquestionably galvanised him, Utaka marking his first start for almost six months with a starring role against Sunderland.
His goal in the 3-1 triumph was also his first for more than a year. No wonder his extravagant celebrations attracted only his second-ever Pompey booking.
And Utaka is convinced he can now go from strength to strength under the new regime.
He added: 'For me, the future is always bright here and I want to stay.
'We are all looking forward to being in the Premier League again next season. I am happy to be here and I have a contract with Portsmouth which I want to stick with.'
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Weather for Portsmouth
Thursday 24 May 2012
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 15 C to 23 C
Wind Speed: 8 mph
Wind direction: South east
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 13 C to 25 C
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