Portsmouth boss not worried about age as he eyes ex-Bournemouth and Shrewsbury's Charlie Daniels in left-back hunt

The Blues have been linked with former Bournemouth defender Charlie Daniels, interest which Pompey’s boss does not dispute.

Aged 34, he signed a short-term deal with Shrewsbury earlier in the season and since made 16 starts.

Following Cam Pring’s return to Bristol City, the Blues have Lee Brown as their only left-back option.

The 30-year-old made his comeback from a hamstring injury in today’s 2-1 FA Cup defeat at Bristol City.

And Jackett revealed quality is the overriding factor in his hunt for a left-back addition rather than age.

Pompey’s boss said: ‘We are looking to bring in a specialist left-back, but aren’t close to signing anybody.

‘No, I haven’t spoken to Charlie Daniels, but he has a fantastic CV and track record and has done well recently at Shrewsbury.

‘I do know of him, but am not close to signing him.

‘We just want a good one really, that’s where it is. Whether they are young or old, to complement it would be ideal, but it does work better when it’s your own player as well.

‘A younger player on loan would balance Lee off at 30 years of age, but ultimately it’s the standard of the player, not the age of the player who will dictate who we are going to sign.’

Daniels – and Shrewsbury – have yet to play in 2021.

In the meantime, Brown is back in the side and turned in a fine performance against Bristol City, fulfilling the entire 90 minutes.

Jackett added: ‘Lee has played well and we are pleased to have him back after his injury.

‘He has to keep working hard to maintain that fitness because he’s a key player for us when he does play.’

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