Kenny Jackett: Why I want Christian Burgess to stay at Portsmouth

Kenny Jackett has outlined his intent to keep Christian Burgess at Fratton Park.
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The Blues boss has revealed contract talks have now opened with the centre-half, who becomes a free agent in the summer.

For Jackett, a fresh Pompey deal represents just reward for the 28-year-old as he continues to enjoy an outstanding campaign.

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The club had previously put all contract discussions with their squad on hold.

However, that stance has now chanced, with Burgess heading the list of those they are keen to retain.

Certainly Jackett is eager to keep the services of one of his pivotal performers this season.

He said: ‘We have talked to Christian about his situation and there has been nothing decided yet.

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‘As with any player, certainly those out of contract, we would have talked to them by now.

Pompey are making moves to secure Christian Burgess' Fratton Park future. Picture: Joe PeplerPompey are making moves to secure Christian Burgess' Fratton Park future. Picture: Joe Pepler
Pompey are making moves to secure Christian Burgess' Fratton Park future. Picture: Joe Pepler

‘That doesn't necessarily mean we have offered or agreed, so there’s not necessary any news, but there have been talks (with Burgess), definitely.

‘We just felt it was time, that’s the big thing. As the season goes on, it’s March next week, so it is really time.

‘Also, to some degree, it’s reward for doing very well over the winter period, so it’s a combination of those things.

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‘We would definitely like to keep him, he has been a good player for me and is well on his way to having a good season.

‘Christian has done well up to now and, as time goes on and his contract is up in the summer, we thought that it was the right time to talk to him.

‘As manager, I would like him to stay – and there have been discussions.’

Burgess has amassed 206 appearances and scored 11 goals since joining the Blues in the summer of 2015.

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The former Peterborough man has also won the League Two title, the Checkatrade Trophy and reached two play-off semi-finals during his time on the south coast.

In addition, he’s part of a Blues side challenged to defeat Salford in the Leasing.com Trophy final at Wembley in April.

A popular figure among supporters, Burgess has been a trustee of Pompey in the Community for the last two years.

Jackett sees the defender’s Fratton Park future stretching beyond five seasons and hopes an agreement can be reached.

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He added: ‘We can’t turn around and say we haven’t talked to Christian, we have.

‘But, similarly, there are players coming in at different times with their agents, maybe they have a year left or different circumstances.

‘Anyway, there have been discussions between the club and Christian about extending his contract.’

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