Ronan Curtis handed Portsmouth striking mantle against struggling Rochdale

Ronan Curtis replaces John Marquis for today's encounter with Rochdale. Picture: Nigel Keene/ProSportsImages

Ronan Curtis makes an instant return to Pompey’s starting XI this afternoon.

The Republic of Ireland cap is back from international duty, although didn’t actually appear in any of the three matches during that time.

He comes in for the suspended John Marquis – and is expected to also take his place up front against Rochdale

With Ellis Harrison out for the season (knee) and Jordy Hiwula (ankle) missing as well, Danny Cowley has a striker shortage for the next three matches.

Curtis’ inclusion against League One’s bottom side represents the sole change to the team which triumphed 2-1 at Shrewsbury last weekend, albeit obviously enforced.

Elsewhere, the bench is unaltered from the Shrews, with no place for young striker Alfie Stanley.

Pompey: MacGillivray, Johnson, Whatmough, Raggett, Brown, Close, Naylor, Harness, Williams, Jacobs, Curtis.

Subs: Ward, Daniels, White, Byers, Cannon, Bolton, Nicolaisen.

Ronan Curtis handed Portsmouth striking mantle against struggling Rochdale

Comment Guidelines