Denmark defender Rasmus Nicolaisen's Portsmouth debut earns Kenny Jackett praise

The Blues boss was delighted with the central defender’s contribution in last night’s comfortable 3-0 success at Southend.

Nicolaisen was handed his maiden appearance in a back three alongside Paul Downing and James Bolton.

Featuring 10 changes and a new 3-4-3 system, Pompey reached the knock-out stages of the EFL Trophy through goals from Ronan Curtis (two) and John Marquis.

And he was also pleased with how Dane Nicolaisen fared on his English introduction.

Jackett told The News: ‘I thought he was excellent.

‘He gave us balance, wants to compete in the air – which is obviously a big thing for a centre-back – and got on the end of one or two things in the opposition’s box.

‘He was also unlucky not to score.

‘Naturally, as a left footer going out there, it gives you good passing options which at times we have lacked.

‘He’s had a very, very solid start with two weeks training and then the game at Southend. He has settled in very well.

‘It’s always good for him to play and learn everybody’s names, getting to know the club – and he has settled in well.’

Nicolaisen had been an unused substitute in the Blues’ previous two matches.

For last night’s trip to Roots Hall, regular centre-half partnership Jack Whatmough and Sean Raggett were rested.

Raggett was on the bench, while Whatmough remained at home.

That allowed Nicolaisen to line up for Pompey for the first time since arriving from Denmark on a season-long loan.

He will now vie with the pair to feature in Saturday’s clash with struggling MK Dons at Fratton.