Portsmouth boss' surprise plans to convert Ronan Curtis into new role

The Blues boss believes the Republic of Ireland international’s future lies in leading the line for Pompey.

But that move has been forced on the backburner for now with Michael Jacobs facing a spell on the sidelines.

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Curtis has predominantly performed down the left wing in his 122 appearances since arriving from Derry City in 2018.

But Jackett sees the 24-year-old as having the kind of attributes which would best be utlilised through the middle for the Blues.

And that has led to him mulling over giving Curtis a role leading the line for Pompey.

He said: ‘I think for Ronan his game is goals, it’s certainly a big part of it and what he wants to do.

‘While he can do that from the left, I think he does have the physicality to go up front.

‘Somewhere along the line I think he will go up front.

‘He’s done well for us since he’s come over from Ireland.

‘He’s been a consistent performer and I have been pleased with him and his all-round game.

‘Again, he is a player who’s capable of goals so whether it’s now or in the future I do believe he will become a central striker.’

Curtis impressed when coming off the bench and playing through the middle in last weekend’s 2-2 draw with Plymouth.

The man who’s scored 36 Pompey goals got on the scoresheet and changed the game with his high-tempo play.

That raised the thought of Curtis continuing there with John Marquis and Ellis Harrison struggling for goals.

It appears that idea is likely to be shelved for now, however, with Curtis’ rival to start on the wing, Michael Jacobs, sidelined with a hamstring issue.

Jackett added: ‘For me personally, we haven’t got Michael Jacobs.

‘So whether it’s now or in the future, I do think he will evolve into a centre-forward.

‘His strengths are those of a centre forward.

‘He has physicality and if you get crosses in he’s good in the air.

‘He also has a good strike off either foot as well.

‘He is (a strong runner) and he is very competitive in terms of going up against the centre-half, giving them problems and winning the ball back.

‘So he has good physicality, but he is a player who looks for goals as well.’

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