Leeds, Derby, Sheffield United and Blackburn-linked Ronan Curtis admits he's turned down offers to stay with Portsmouth

Pompey winger Ronan Curtis has admitted he’s turned down ‘a couple of offers’ to move away from Fratton Park – with the latest bid for his services arriving in January.
Pompey winger Ronan CurtisPompey winger Ronan Curtis
Pompey winger Ronan Curtis

But as Pompey prepare for their play-off semi-final first-leg tie against Oxford United tonight (5.30pm), the Irishman reaffirmed his commitment to the Blues.

The former Derry man’s form since his switch to Fratton Park in the summer of 2018 has attracted interest from clubs at both Premier League and Championship level.

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Leicester, Sheffield United, Leeds and Derby have all been linked with the talented wide man, who has 91 Pompey appearances and 25 goals to his name.

Meanwhile, in January, Blackburn Rovers apparently joined the long queue of admirers – prompting reports that the Blues had slapped a £3m price tag on Curtis’ head.

The winger ended speculation over his future by penning a new three-year deal at Fratton Park which would keep him on the south coast until the summer of 2023.

And manager Kenny Jackett told The News last month that he was under no pressure to sell any of his prized assets as clubs get to grips with new financial conditions created by the coronavirus.

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Both instances will reassure the Fratton faithful of the Irishman’s commitment to Pompey.

But just in case their remains any element of doubt, Curtis reaffirmed his Blues loyalty by admitting to the BBC he had turned down offers as late in January to remain in the city.

Speaking to the BBC about his two years on the south cost, he said: ‘The players, the staff, the management and the fans made me feel really, really welcome. I settled in really quickly.

‘They gave me a chance and I've played well and got myself a new deal.

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‘I had a couple of offers last summer and in January, but I didn't want to leave.

‘I have settled in here and love this city.’

Curtis added he was confident he and his Pompey team-mates could end the club’s eight-year wait to return to the Championship, with the Blues set to play Oxford tonight in the first game of their play-off double-header.

He added: ‘We fancy ourselves to do it and win the play-offs.

‘We're fit and raring to go. We've been waiting a long time to play again and we're all clear of Covid-19 now.’

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