Brett Pitman makes his case to be Portsmouth's regular number 10

Brett Pitman put forward his case to become Pompey’s number 10 and insisted: I’m more of a goal threat in that position.
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The Blues skipper can operate either as a striker or in a deeper attacking role.

During his first season at Fratton Park (2017-18), Pitman spearheaded the front line and finished as Pompey’s 25-goal top scorer.

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Last campaign, he netted 13 times – although was only given a sustained run of starts from March onwards.

The forward has been in fine form during the current pre-season.

He’s notched five goals to date as he stakes a claim for a spot in Kenny Jackett’s side for the League One curtain-raiser at Shrewsbury.

It’s the berth off the front man that Pitman feels is his best, but faces competition from Louis Dennis, Gareth Evans, Andy Cannon and Marcus Harness.

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Jackett has called time on his search for a new number 10 and is happy with the options he has available.

Pompey captain Brett Pitman  Picture: Joe PeplerPompey captain Brett Pitman  Picture: Joe Pepler
Pompey captain Brett Pitman Picture: Joe Pepler

And Pitman is confident he can be the man from that quintet to deliver the goods.

‘I said last season that if I play enough games I will always score goals,’ said the forward.

‘Obviously last season I didn’t play as much as the previous campaign so I didn't score as many goals.

‘But I think you can score more in the number 10.

Brett Pitman scores against Bognor during pre-season. Picture: Tommy McMillanBrett Pitman scores against Bognor during pre-season. Picture: Tommy McMillan
Brett Pitman scores against Bognor during pre-season. Picture: Tommy McMillan
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‘It’s easier to come on to the ball and arrive later in the box, while you’re not fighting for headers as much.

‘I just find it a little bit easy – I always have. You can time your runs into the box better.

‘Ultimately, you need to be on the pitch to be able to score goals.

‘Whether I’m playing as a number nine, number 10, out wide or wherever, I’ll still be a goal threat.’

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The joint-oldest member of Jackett’s squad, aged 31, Pitman reckons he’s got the experience and craft to help fire Pompey to promotion.

He added: ‘Of course I back myself.

‘We’ve got a good squad and good players in a lot of positions.

‘It’s up to the manager but I’m 31 and I'd like to think he knows what he’s going to get and what I can do if he selects me.’

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