Why Portsmouth agreed to Republic of Ireland international Ronan Curtis returning home through pandemic

The Pompey boss is taking steps to ensure his squad are dealing with the physical and mental challenges of remaining isolated and also maintaining fitness, as the Covid-19 pandemic continues.

Curtis last week travelled back to Ireland from the city after struggling to maintain a training programme in the city.

Some questioned the validity of such a move, with the Republic of Ireland international now back in Derry.

Jackett explained his lookout continues to be his player’s welfare and he is comfortable with their situations at present.

He said: ‘I’ve been in touch in terms of phoning.

‘Different people have been firing different questions in terms of this, that and the other. That’s not changed

‘There’s nothing much to report in terms of anything different. Everyone’s situations are as it is.

‘You ask about them, their welfare, their family’s welfare and their situations, because if that’s not settled then it’s very difficult to actually get working.’

Pompey have seen five of their players test positive for Covid-19 since the start of the outbreak.

There was also fitness issues for Sean Raggett and Ben Close after the last game against Fleetwood five weeks ago.

There are currently no further problems on either front.

Jackett added: Ben had an ankle injury but got over that and did plenty of work outside.

‘Sean Raggett had a slight hamstring but is 100 per cent now.

‘There’s no problems in terms of the squad in terms of injuries and health.

‘I’m pleased to say everyone’s okay and there’s a clean bill of health at present.’