Kenny Jackett outlines mindset over selling Ronan Curtis and Alex Bass this summer

The Blues boss has made it clear he's not inviting bids for Alex Bass and Ronan Curtis this summer.

Pompey are currently haemorrhaging £700,000 a month as a result of the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic - but that’s not putting the club into a position where they need to sell.

There's been interest from a number of clubs in Curtis in his time at Fratton Park, with Brentford the latest club reported to be keen.

Crystal Palace have sounded Pompey out about Bass, who's impressed since being given his first run in the side this year.

But even with a keeper of Craig MacGillivray's quality already at the club, Jackett has made it clear he's not looking to move on the young talent.

He said: 'We haven’t had any enquiries or bids in any of our players.

'It’s not something that I would encourage.

'We want to develop him (Bass) and for him to do well and be part of the club going forward.

'It’s not a situation we are inviting.

'From my point of view, I would only start to think and consider it if the phone starts to go and a bid comes in.

'While it doesn’t, we’re focusing on the new season and Alex being a big part of that.

'I like Alex. He has a lot of ability, a good temperament as well.

'Him and Craig I rate highly and like both. They’re both in competition and both produce a good standard.

'I rate both keepers and that’s good for the club that we have two keepers that are the standard they are.'

Bass usurping MacGillivray has made it a testing period for the man who was involved in the Scottish international set-up last season.

The former Shrewsbury man admitted it's prompted the toughest period of his career, with Jackett informing him it was a decision based on a 'gut feeling'.

That prompted some fans to ask whether Pompey need two keepers of their calibre, or would money generated from a sale be better spent elsewhere.

Jackett's concern, however, is not leaving his squad light in that area.

He added: 'I would have sympathy for the player because every player wants to be playing.

'But, from the club’s point of view, it’s my job to put together the strongest squad possible.

'Alex has come through the ranks, made big strides and we have two good goalkeepers.

'I would have sympathy for Craig, but things have to be right for the club and it’s not good being in a situation where we leave ourselves short.'

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