Mark Catlin addresses supporter unrest over Portsmouth future of Kenny Jackett

However, Pompey’s chief executive admits he’s aware of the Fratton faithful’s strength of feeling towards the manager.

Jackett has come under heavy fire following the Blues’ play-off semi-final elimination by Oxford United.

Many are calling for the head of the 58-year-old, following three League One seasons at Fratton Park.

Regardless, the indications are Jackett will remain to head the promotion push for 2020-21.

Although Catlin would not be drawn on the issue.

He told The News: ‘We don’t discuss a manager’s position at the club. We never have – and that is something we will continue to keep to ourselves.

‘Which is right. You cannot be running any business openly and publicly.

‘It’s not our style, it never has been and it never will be.

‘As a club, we're always looking to improve. This year is only the second time since I’ve been here that we have actually gone back by a league position, albeit by a single place and through Covid-19.

‘For next season we will have learnt from any mistakes we feel we made this year, specifically the poor start which always put us on the back foot and playing catch up.

‘Just at the point where we caught up, then Covid-19 took over.

‘We pride ourselves both on and off the pitch in regards of all the key metrics financially and league positions.

‘Off the pitch, it will be very difficult to get anywhere near last year’s figures because of the pandemic.

‘But, on the pitch, league position-wise we will be looking to improve again.’

With the League One campaign curtailed with nine matches remaining, the adjusted table dictated fifth place for the Blues.

Jackett’s side were previously in fourth, just two points off Rotherham in the second automatic promotion spot.

Regardless, Paul Cook’s replacement has still to steer the Blues out of the division after three seasons in the job, prompting a supporter backlash among many.

Catlin had previously promised no ‘kneejerk’ reaction – but anger has been building.

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Catlin added: ‘Everyone is entitled to an opinion in all walks of life, not just football.

‘As long as the opinion isn’t abusive, threatening or inflammatory then people are perfectly entitled to it. All opinions are valid.

‘At the moment, there’s a broad range of views across different spectrums. While you listen to opinions, ultimately, as a football club, it’s us that makes the final decision. That’s the way it has to be in any business.

‘It’s unfair just to mention Kenny because quite a lot of what I see out there on social media is also often applied to our players.

‘It’s the life you lead. If you can’t stand the heat, you shouldn’t be in the kitchen.’

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