Portsmouth boss weighs up Curtis role for Sunderland visit

The Blues boss used the Republic of Ireland international in a central attacking role following a switch to a 3-5-2 formation last Saturday.

That saw Curtis move closer to striker Oli Hawkins as his side gained a decent point against their promotion rivals.

The debate is whether Jackett now returns to a 4-2-3-1 formation as the Black Cats arrive at Fratton Park on Saturday.

Jackett can see the benefit of Curtis playing further forward where he feels he's a danger.

He said: '˜Ronan got into very good positions (against Barnsley) and was almost one side-step or move from being in goalscoring positions.

'˜When he goes up front, that's where Ronan is.

'˜He looks like he is a major threat because his attitude and athleticism stands out.

'˜You're just waiting for that ball to break for him or him pushing to the side of the defender so he can pull the trigger.

'˜There are many times he's been like that and was like that all of the way through against Barnsley '“ as was Jamal Lowe in certain situations.

'˜Sometimes there haven't been enough players around Hawkins.

'˜We have a degree of tactical flexibility because there are times when you need some pace on the break.'

Curtis did pick up a third yellow card of the season for simulation on Saturday, which Jackett felt was unfair on the summer arrival from Derry City.

He added: '˜I thought it was harsh, very harsh.

'˜Keeping your feet on days like last Saturday was difficult and for that to be an out-and-out booking for simulation looked a harsh one.'