Mark Kelly delighted that ex-Portsmouth, Brighton and Southampton keeper has returned to Blues

Mark Kelly is delighted Michael Poke is back at Pompey.
By Will Rooney
Published 25th Mar 2020, 05:30 BST
Updated 27th Mar 2020, 15:18 BST
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The former Blues stopper has returned to Fratton Park as the club's academy goalkeeping coach.

Poke has a sound pedigree after representing the likes of Brighton, Bristol Rovers,Torquay and Southampton during in his playing career.

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Although Poke didn't make one appearance for Pompey during his one-and-a-half years at Fratton Park, he’s well aware of the high expectations that come with his new remit.

Michael Poke is back at Pompey as academy goalkeeping coach. Picture: Joe PeplerMichael Poke is back at Pompey as academy goalkeeping coach. Picture: Joe Pepler
Michael Poke is back at Pompey as academy goalkeeping coach. Picture: Joe Pepler

And that's why Kelly is pleased with the appointment of the 34-year-old.

The Blues’ youth chief said: ‘Michael is back with us and I'm really pleased with the appointment.

‘He comes with a good playing background and has gained good experience coaching after he finished playing.

‘He obviously knows the club well and the expectations around it.

‘He has a great manner and I'm sure all the goalkeepers in the academy will enjoy working with him.’

Related topics:BrightonSouthamptonPompeyThe BluesFratton ParkTorquayBristol Rovers

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