PORTSMOUTH MANAGER KENNY Jackett has been impressed by the way Ronan Curtis has settled into life in League One after the Ireland U21 international scored a match-winning brace against Blackpool yesterday.
Curtis’ standout performances in the League of Ireland for Derry City caught the eye of Jackett and the winger has hit the ground running in England, playing 90 minutes in both of Portsmouth’s opening league games.
The 22-year-old opened the scoring at Bloomfield Road on Saturday before adding his second after the break to help Pompey to a 2-1 victory, which leaves them fifth in League One with two wins from two.
Speaking after the game, Portsmouth boss Jackett hailed the impact Curtis has made at Fratton Park since his arrival earlier in the summer.
“A couple of goals will really help his confidence and he also hit the post during the first half,” he said.
“He’s been playing in a competitive and physical league and to see him build on that over here in League One is great.
“It’s still early days, but the thing that’s impressed me most is his willingness to work hard for the team.
“Whatever talents people have and whatever role they play, you have to be selfless and put Pompey first.”
Curtis, who spent three seasons in the League of Ireland with the Candystripes before earning a move across the water, added: “I’m absolutely buzzing with the two goals and the result. It’s another three points on the board.
“The first goal came from a flick on by Oli Hawkins and I could have gone down. It would have been a penalty and a red card.
“But I stayed on my feet and was able to get the opener, which helped me build some more confidence.
“I knew I would get another chance in the second half. I chested the ball down and sent it through the keeper’s legs.
“When I came here I thought I’d have to work my way into the team, but the gaffer’s put his trust in me and I’m grateful.
“League One is a step up — the tempo’s sharper and the ball moves quicker, but I think I’ve shown I’m up to that.”
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