Kenny Jackett weighs up new Andy Cannon role following Portsmouth audition piece against Fleetwood

Andy Cannon has been handed a trial run, now Kenny Jackett is weighing up a different Pompey midfield role.
Kenny Jackett trialled Andy Cannon as a deep central midfielder in Tuesday night's 2-2 draw with Fleetwood. Picture: Joe PeplerKenny Jackett trialled Andy Cannon as a deep central midfielder in Tuesday night's 2-2 draw with Fleetwood. Picture: Joe Pepler
Kenny Jackett trialled Andy Cannon as a deep central midfielder in Tuesday night's 2-2 draw with Fleetwood. Picture: Joe Pepler

It was in the 65th minute against Fleetwood when Cameron McGeehan was substituted in favour of introducing John Marquis to bolster attacking potency.

In the ensuing reshuffle, it allowed the Blues boss to assess Cannon alongside Tom Naylor in a deeper position.

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Free from injury and offering superb close control and boundless energy, the former Rochdale man potentially represents a key performer during the promotion run in.

His subsequent display in the 2-2 draw certainly provided Jackett food for thought as he mulls over how to bring out his best.

He said: ‘I wanted to have a look at Tom Naylor and Andy Cannon as a midfield pair – and also open up the 10 position for me.

‘I did think there were moments in Andy and we want him to get into a good rhythm now and try to play as much as possible because he’s a good player.

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‘He didn’t look out of place there at all. Sometimes maybe it’s a little easier to get on the ball in that position rather than further forward.

(replaced Cameron McGeehan on 65 minutes): Couldn’t get himself involved in the action.(replaced Cameron McGeehan on 65 minutes): Couldn’t get himself involved in the action.
(replaced Cameron McGeehan on 65 minutes): Couldn’t get himself involved in the action.

‘Andy’s obviously had his niggles with his injuries, but it would now be nice to stay in the side and have a run. That would be terrific.

‘He did okay against Fleetwood, I do think he’s got a lot of potential, there’s a lot to come and he can do well. The last injury was a hamstring and he is over that now and fine.

‘I am looking for a big finish (from him).’

McGeehan has been an automatic choice for Jackett since his loan arrival from Barnsley, making 14 appearances.

(replaced by John Marquis on 65mins): Very tidy but still waiting for him to spark.(replaced by John Marquis on 65mins): Very tidy but still waiting for him to spark.
(replaced by John Marquis on 65mins): Very tidy but still waiting for him to spark.
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And Pompey’s manager insists he has been pleased with the 24-year-old’s displays.

He added: ‘McGeehan showed a good attitude on Tuesday night and good aggression.

‘I would say one or two passes maybe went astray, but we had quite a number of players like that in the first half.

‘He’s a good player and has done well. We needed to add in that area, as you can see we needed cover, and Cameron has been a good addition.’

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