Curtis: I expected to be on Portsmouth's bench

The 22-year-old has enjoyed a sensational start to his Football League career following a summer switch from Derry City.

Despite, by his own admission, challenging himself at a higher level, he has already registered five goals and three assists.

This week the talented forward earned a maiden call-up to the Republic of Ireland senior squad, after scoring for the under-21s.

Yet Curtis never anticipated featuring quite so regularly in Kenny Jackett's first team this early in his Blues career.

And he's eyeing maintaining his remarkable impact at Peterborough tomorrow.

The Irishman said: '˜I didn't think I was going to come here and play at the start, but Kenny Jackett and his staff have put their faith in me.

'˜I have returned the favour considering how well I've been doing so far '“ and hopefully that continues.

'˜I did think I would be on the bench. I thought I'd go to Portsmouth, it is a step up from the League of Ireland and there are boys here from last year.

'˜The idea was I would work my way in and, if I got my chance, take it.

'˜But the manager put his faith in me and I've started the season well.

'˜I worked hard in pre-season and played most of the games, doing okay, so I think that's why I came into the side.

'˜I'm here to work hard, League One is a step up and I have controlled that. I think I am more than capable enough to deal with that, really.

'˜I hit the ground running, I had two weeks off compared to all the other lads that had around a month-and-a-half off, but that's my job, I'm a footballer.

'˜I'm not doing too badly at the minute '“ and hopefully that continues.'

Pompey travel to Peterborough in the knowledge victory would see them overtake the league leaders.

Both sides are undefeated, yet Steve Evans' men stand two points ahead.

And Curtis is relishing the intriguing encounter.

He added: '˜Peterborough are a really strong side, but it's not like we have to be scared of them. They will be scared of us because we haven't lost a game either.

'˜We have won five and drawn two, so are flying at the minute. Hopefully we can keep this run going.

'˜It's who wants it more on the day. We'll be up for it, we'll be ready for it. Hopefully we'll get the win and go to the top.'