Michael Pantling deler igjen sine tanker om Pompey.

MENINGER: Michael Pantling er den av våre medlemmer som ser Pompey oftest i aksjon. Engelskmannen bosatt i Danmark deler igjen sine tanker rundt Pompey:

I think that our high flying position this time last season has raised our expectations. Pompey over-performed with the help of on-loan players and fell away when they were recalled.

The sale of Matt Clarke brought in some cash which enabled Jackett to buy replacements with mixed success. Williams & Harrison have fitted in well but finding the most suitable formation to get the best out of Marquis hasn’t been easy and in my opinion is still work in progress. Marquis is a fine player but is one who needs the right service to flourish. I have liked what I have seen of Harness as well. Evans still gives everything when given the chance.

Our midfield has still got problems. Curtis seems to have rediscovered his form but Ben Close has stagnated, undoubtably tallented and a couple of wonder goals early on but still not as effective as Ben Thompson last season. Andy Cannon not getting much playing time , nor is McCrorie – I can see him going back to Rangers at Christmas.

Naylor is not as such an enforcer as Doyle

Naylor is doing ok but not as such an enforcer as Michael Doyle was. Our real worry must be the back four. To have to play Haunstrup at right back days a lot about the others, we should be very glad that such an obviously left sided player can do so well on the right is a credit to all. I thought Bolton was competent when I have seen him play, and better than Walkes.

Downing clearly doesn’t fit but to have to use Hawkins is a big concern. Raggett got better with improving fitness but injured. Watmough is back training but still a bit away from first team fitness and everybody will be forever wary about his knees.

The visit of Peterborough showed that we haven’t really replaced Thompson, he was perhaps a bit over-forcefull against Pompey for our fans liking but it was ok when he used to do it for us.

Nice to see Dan Butler back at Fratton – he had clearly gained as lot more experience since he left but we were right to let him go at that time.

At last playing some entertaining football

On the positive side, we have got over that dreadful start to the season, we are not losing and are at last playing some entertaining football.

Mid season is never the best time to buy but we need cover at centre back and a right back. An experienced defencive midfielder who can help Naylor cover the back four and generally hold things together would be useful.

Goalkeeping wise, McGilivray is fine and Bass is adequate cover. I can’t see any future for McGee.

We have got enough to make the play-offs but not automatic promotion this time. We could have a reasonable cup run.

Jackett looks safe

Jackett looks safe and there have been fewer negative chants from the crowd as our form has improved.

Christmas / New Year will always throw up a few surprises so let’s hope they are all positive for Pompey.

PuP

Kenny Jackett