Portsmouth boss Danny Cowley has told The News that he believes Ronan Curtis will return from his suspension as a more effective performer for his side. 

The Republic of Ireland international is suspended for the South Coast club's upcoming game against Rotherham United, whilst the winger was also overlooked by his country during the international break just gone.

Curtis has been in somewhat inconsistent form this season following a summer transfer window where he was strongly linked with a move away from Fratton Park to clubs in a higher league.

However Cowley has now backed his player to shine upon his return to the fold, as he stated the following recently:

"Maybe he was disappointed not to be selected (for Ireland), but I also know he will be very motivated to prove people wrong because he has done that all his life, he’s the underdog.

"He prides himself in that situation, it's a situation he knows well, and one he has been very successful in in the past."

Curtis has been with Pompey since 2018 and has gradually developed into a key player for his side since his arrival from Derry City.

The winger still has just under two years left to run on his current contract at Fratton Park and will be looking to make a lasting impact upon his return to the squad.

The Verdict 

There has always been question marks over the attitude of Curtis but it would be fair to say that Cowley is a manager who knows how to manage him effectively.

The Irishman is still very much one of the main protagonists for his side despite all of the things that went on over the summer on the South Coast.

He is clearly ambitious and wants to prove that he can play at a higher level and it could just be the case that Pompey need to harness that in order to get the best out of him.

If they can get Curtis firing on all cylinders, they should continue to rise up the league standings over the coming months.