Portsmouth boss tackles talk of Ronan Curtis exit to Brentford

And Kenny Jackett had made it clear he sees the Republic of Ireland international thriving in the same starting XI as new boy Michael Jacobs.

Curtis continues to be linked with a move away from Fratton Park, with Championship Brentford being touted as his destination.

But Jackett has stated there are no bids on the table for the 24-year-old, or any suggestion of a departure being close.

The Pompey boss is firm on the prospect of Curtis linking up with Jacobs and the likes of Marcus Harness, Ryan Williams and Gareth Evans in some powerful attacking options.

Jackett said: ‘We’ve not had any enquiries or bids for Ronan and he signed a new contract last year.

‘We’re not looking to sell Ronan at all and we’ve not had any enquiries or bids for him either.

‘He’s part of our plans. If that was to suddenly change one day when the phone rings, I don’t know.

‘But there’s nothing brewing or in the pipeline right now. There’s not anybody necessarily waiting in the wings for him.

‘I do definitely see them playing together - 100 per cent.

‘Michael hasn’t been brought in as a replacement for Ronan Curtis.’

Jackett explained Pompey will ease Jacobs into contention, with the former Wigan man playing catch-up on his fitness.

The 28-year-old will not be risked against Brighton, but will build up his work before being expected to nail down the number 10 position.

Jackett added: ‘Just adding someone of his quality, proven ability and experience at just 28, I think he helps our team let alone our squad.

‘It would be great for him to work away now at being our first choice. He’s going to get that chance, definitely.

‘From a training viewpoint we’ve got to make sure he gets fit and stays fit - and match fit as well.

‘We have to make sure that when he comes in he stays in. That’s important.

‘He’s had a pre-season where he’s worked at Wigan for the first few weeks, but in recent weeks when they’ve been playing games he hasn’t been there.

‘So there’s a little bit of catching up for him to do, but it’s good to get him in training so we can view him, see him and make sure we get him to the right standard.

‘We won’t rush him, we’ll let him develop at his own pace so when he comes in he stays in.’

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