Stand-in skipper Lee Brown earns Portsmouth boss praise after dislodging Steve Seddon

Lee Brown earned Kenny Jackett’s praise following his return to Pompey first-team return.
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The left-back was handed a start against Oxford United ahead of Steve Seddon – and also given the captain’s armband.

He subsequently turned in a rock solid defensive display which delighted his manager.

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Seddon had largely been Jackett’s first choice since his January loan arrival from Birmingham, while started the last three matches before the league’s suspension.

But it was Brown who earned the nod in last night’s League One play-off semi-final first leg against Oxford.

And Jackett sang his praises after the 1-1 draw.

Pompey’s boss told The News: ‘Lee has a lot of experience – and Steve did have a knee injury during this run out.

‘He is over it now, but similarly Lee had then got into a good groove and the side had got form.

Lee Brown earned Kenny Jackett's praise after restored to Pompey's side - and as skipper. Picture: Joe PeplerLee Brown earned Kenny Jackett's praise after restored to Pompey's side - and as skipper. Picture: Joe Pepler
Lee Brown earned Kenny Jackett's praise after restored to Pompey's side - and as skipper. Picture: Joe Pepler
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‘It was a big call, but Lee brings a lot of experience and talking to that back line as well.

‘He played well against Oxford, I was very pleased with him, and, as captain, his talking is second to none.

‘Lee got into some good areas and put in some good crosses, which Steve can do as well, of course.

‘It’s close between the two. Steve is an outstanding individual, Lee has a lot of experience.

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‘Steve hurt his knee a few weeks ago, but is over that now and is 100 per cent.

‘But, similarly, the work and build up of the team gave Lee the opening and so far he has held it.’

Jackett also elected to choose Marcus Harness ahead of Ryan Williams for the right-wing role.

The duo have battled it out for the position all season, yet it was the first time Harness has appeared there in six matches.

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Nonetheless, he impressed, particularly when asked to move inside following Williams’ introduction off the bench in the 63rd minute.

Jackett added: ‘Marcus is a big player for us and we hope he can continue, I was very pleased with what he did last night.

‘It is very close between Marcus and Ryan, it is something I have dovetailed anyway.

‘I don't think one has necessarily come out of top.’

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