Portsmouth boss Kenny Jackett upbeat on Michael Jacobs' injury results after fearing worst

Following the results of a scan on the left knee he damaged at Sunderland, the winger will be sidelined for six weeks.

For Jackett, that represents a positive outcome, having feared a lengthier time out for the ex-Wigan man.

Jacobs does not require an operation and will now undergo rehabilitation under the watchful eye of head physio Bobby Bacic and his staff.

And for Pompey’s boss, that represents good news.

Jackett told The News: ‘Michael will be out for approximately six weeks.

‘It could have been worse because it was a quite nasty tackle and, looking at his reaction afterwards when he couldn’t quite shake it off, these can sometimes be bad.

‘He has shaken up his ligaments in his left knee, with no rupture, no long-term damage or the need for an operation.

‘It could definitely be worse, especially when you see it swell up after. We don’t want him to miss six week at all, but my own view is it could possibly have been worse at that time.

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‘Michael’s a good player and we are pleased to bring him here. In terms of playing 4-4-2, he’s a very, very good 4-4-2 wide man, who gets inside well and can drive with the ball. If you have two ahead of him, he can pick a pass as well.

‘We'll look after him now and there’s enough of the season still to go where he can make a big contribution – and he will.’

In Jacobs’ absence, Ronan Curtis will occupy the left flank.

The Republic of Ireland international marked his return to the starting XI against Northampton with a goal in Tuesday night’s 4-0 victory.

That took his Pompey tally to 30 goals in 105 appearances.

Jackett added: ‘Ronan is a slightly different player, not as technical, a bit more powerful, but still a very good player and has done well for us over a period of time.

‘With Michael, we are sorry that he’s out, but we will look after him.

‘There is enough of the season left to go where he can still make a big contribution for us.’

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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