Portsmouth assistant gives bullish verdict on Ronan Curtis stepping up in Michael Jacobs' injury absence

Joe Gallen is adamant just one goal will see the Republic of Ireland international return to his best after beginning the season out of sorts.

Curtis started on the bench for successive matches in the Blues’ 3-1 victory at Sunderland on Saturday.

What's more, he was substituted in both league outings beforehand and still awaits a first goal in League One.

However, Michael Jacobs suffered a knee injury at the Stadium of Light and was replaced by Curtis in the second half.

Jacobs looks unlikely to be fit for Tuesday’s visit of Northampton – paving the way back for Curtis to return to Kenny Jackett’s starting line-up.

Although the former Derry City winger hasn’t been operating at the peak of his powers, Gallen remains certain things can quickly change.

Pompey's assistant manager said: ‘Michael's hurt his knee and I don't know how badly.

‘He's been hobbling away and there will be a scan Monday or Tuesday. I can safely say it's more than likely that Tuesday night is not going to be the one.

‘We have to wait and see, you never know, time can tell.

‘It looks like it Michael Jacobs isn't fit then Ronan Curtis is a natural fit for that position.

‘I'm pretty sure with Ronan, and I have been quoted before because he's played very well for us, that as soon as he gets a goal then we will see the Ronan Curtis that we all want to see.’

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