Andy Cullen's pledge as devastated ex-Blackburn and Cardiff target waits to learn Portsmouth future

But he admits contract negotiations are not imminent, with focus fixed on the early stages of rehabilitation.

The Republic of Ireland this morning underwent a 60-minute operation to repair ACL damage to his left knee, sustained last month against Bolton.

He is likely to be out of action until December – with his Blues deal expiring at the end of June.

Cullen is adamant Pompey have a duty of care to the winger and will stick by him throughout his long rehabilitation, regardless of whether under contract.

However, it remains a complex situation, with talks over a potential fresh deal still to take place with the 26-year-old.

Cullen told The News: ‘It’s a desperate situation as Ronan was really coming into form and really enjoying his football with John.

‘So to get that injury which, at the time seemed relatively innocuous to both Ronan and everybody else, is devastating and our heart goes out to him.

‘When we get through this first stage of his rehab, then we’ll have proper discussions about his contract.

‘The most important thing at the moment is to get through the operation – and we will support him 100 per cent throughout the period of his rehabilitation to get him back to the form he was in, regardless of any contractual situation.

‘We will support Ronan, as we should do. We rightfully should be seen as a caring football club.

‘Absolutely 100 per cent we will look after him, unless, with him being out of contract, he signs for somebody else, then they will take it over.

‘But we will back him and support him and make sure he comes through his injury rehabilitation in the best possible way.

‘I think it’s important, it’s exactly the way you want to be seen to behave and fits our values. I can’t talk for every club but it’s the right thing for Portsmouth Football Club to do.’

It is understood Curtis has been heartened by goodwill messages from supporters since sustaining the heart-breaking injury.

On Wednesday morning he visited the world-renowned Fortius Clinic in Marylebone, London, who have previously helped Virgil van Dijk, Neymar, Danny Ings and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.

Having been discharged in the afternoon, he is now back at his Portsmouth home recuperating, ready for the next stage of his fitness battle.

The former Derry man had enjoyed an encouraging start to life under John Mousino, starting three of the last four matches he was available for before injury struck.

However, the three-and-a-half year deal he signed at Pompey in February 2020 is nearing an end.

Mousinho added: ‘It perfectly illustrates the precarious nature of being a professional footballer and how short careers are.

‘I am at a grand old age where I’m still able to develop and enjoy a career that I've had for many, many years.

‘A professional footballer is a very, very short time span, you never know what’s around the corner, so, in times like this, it’s important you look after your own.’