Portsmouth boss gives forthright view on Sean Raggett facing his critics

And Kenny Jackett has saluted the defender for the impact he’s been having on those around him as the Blues’ promotion bid fires.

Jackett’s side go to Plymouth on Monday looking to make it seven away wins on the spin - and equal a similar sequence Harry Redknapp’s Premier League side 13 years ago.

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Raggett has been a cornerstone of that run, but that has not stopped the 26-year-old falling foul of online sniping from his detractors.

Jackett has no doubt about the former Norwich man’s value to the team, however, both in terms of his influence and impact on those around him

He said: ‘In terms of negativity, Sean doesn’t say much.

‘He’s a very positive person and positive player about what he’s doing, in his approach and impact on other people - which is a part of it.

‘As a player and a pro you are looking at someone’s reaction, attitude and outlook on things.

‘Then you look at their effect on other people, because it’s a team game.

‘People who affect other people positively are very good for you, and Sean with, let’s say, his no-nonsense approach and professionalism rubs off on people and sets a very good example.

‘There’s been some outstanding games from him this season.

‘There’s been some games where we haven’t been troubled at the back, too, and gone forward.

‘The game that stands out recently is the Sunderland game when we were ahead and very much under pressure.

‘He responded to that very well and that says a lot about him.’

Raggett’s influence can be seen in the fact he has played every league game for Pompey, since missing the 2-2 draw with Peterborough on December 7 last year.

That run is under threat with the centre-half battling a hip issue to be fit to face Plymouth on Monday.

Pompey’s League One form in that time is unsurpassed and Jackett feels that’s no coincidence.

He added: ‘Sean’s a very consistent player and he’s a very consistent person.

‘Working with him, he’s always someone you can rely on.

‘He always prepares himself well and gives his best.

‘A long run is what he needs to produce his best. If you look at last year he grew as the season went on.

‘This season is going the same, so if he’s made consecutive appearances it shows how consistent he is as a professional.’

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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