Portsmouth boss Kenny Jackett hails 'exciting' talent Michael Jacobs following ex-Wigan ace's move to Fratton Park

Former Wigan midfielder Michael Jacobs has joined Pompey. Picture: Pete Norton/Getty Images

The Blues boss also believes the attacking-midfielder is a ‘natural’ fit for the key No10 role in his preferred 4-2-3-1 formation – a position the club have been eager to fill as they attempt to end their wait for a Championship return.

Jacobs completed his move to Fratton Park on Monday evening, signing a two-year deal, with Pompey having the options of a further 12 months.

He represents the Blues’ fourth summer signing, following Sean Raggett, Cameron Pring (loan) and Callum Johnson in making the move to the south coast.

Meanwhile, his switch sees him link up again with Jackett, for whom he played for when Wolves won the League One title in 2014.

That promotion-winning campaign is one of three from League One on Jacobs’ CV.

And with the 28-year-old also boasting plenty of Championship experience, Jackett believes he possesses all the credentials and talent to make his mark at Pompey.

The Blues boss said: ‘Michael’s an exciting player with good Championship experience and an excellent track record of getting out of this division.

‘He adds to our attacking options and I see him as a very natural number 10 in our 4-2-3-1 system, while he can also play in the wide positions.

‘A player who likes to get on the ball and create things, we hope he can be the link between our midfield and attack.

‘Michael performs with a lot of enthusiasm and has the ability to go past people.

‘He can drop his shoulder when 1v1 and take the ball either way comfortably.

‘I’ve worked with him before at Wolves and he did very well there, as he’s done at all of his previous clubs.’

Jacobs made 176 appearances during his five-year spell at the Latics, playing 32 times last season as Paul Cook’s side finished 13th before administration saw them relegated.

Gareth Evans has started all three Pompey games this season in the role immediately behind the loan striker in Jackett’s 4-2-3-1 system.

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