Kenny Jackett: Ronan Curtis has my trust to continue being key Portsmouth performer

The Blues boss has backed the left winger, whose assists and goals have proven a rich source of ammunition since his May 2018 arrival.

The Republic of Ireland international has been instrumental in reaching two play-off semi-finals and claiming the Checkatrade Trophy.

However, Curtis’ form of late has noticeably dipped, while he’s without a goal since mid-November.

But, ahead of tonight’s trip to Charlton (7pm), Pompey’s manager reiterated his admiration for the 24-year-old.

Jackett told The News: ‘Ronan’s fine (after coronavirus), 100 per cent, no problems and in full training. He’s fully fit.

‘Talk of his form is all opinions. I like Ronan, I like him as a player, I like him as a lad. I think he’s got good character and over his time here has played very well for me.

‘With a big period coming up, I trust him to continue producing the goods and, looking forward, which is the most important thing, he has the ability to do it.

‘Ronan Curtis is a good player, a good character, and looking forward to the second half of the season, enjoying the challenge.

‘Ronan will play a big part in that.’

Michael Jacobs has returned to the squad following a knee ligament injury and demonstrated in last month’s 4-0 win over AFC Wimbledon that his sharpness is back.

However, since that match, Curtis has started ahead of him on the left wing, two fixtures which both ended in defeat to promotion rivals.

Publicly, the starting XI for Saturday’s aborted trip to the Valley has not been revealed.

Tonight the Blues head back to south London, albeit hoping the weather will not intervene and prompt postponement.

And it remains to be seen whether Jacobs is handed a recall – or if Jackett keeps faith in Curtis.

He added: ‘They can both play on the right as well, while, of late, Ryan Williams has been the one playing off John Marquis.

‘There is some flexibility among our front players to play along the front line – and that’s important.’

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

The News has launched a new subscription offer which gives you unlimited access to all of our Pompey coverage, starting at less than £1 a week.

You can subscribe here to get the latest news and transfer updates from Fratton Park - and to support our local team of expert Pompey writers.