Portsmouth boss Kenny Jackett has claimed that Craig MacGillivray and Ronan Curtis should both be available for the FA Cup trip to Harrogate even if they are called up to their international sides.

It was previously unclear whether the duo would be able to feature due to the game being played on the Monday of an international week, but Jackett has now stated his expectation that MacGillivray and Curtis will be available for selection.

MacGillivray has been named in the Scotland squad during the last two international periods, but he is yet to make his debut for his country, while Curtis has already been named in the provisional Republic of Ireland squad for their clashes with New Zealand and Denmark.

The pair have been regulars in Portsmouth's side this term with MacGillivray having been the first-choice goalkeeper, while Curtis has started the majority of Pompey's matches on the left wing during their difficult start to the season.

BBC reporter Andrew Moon shared Jackett's comments regarding Curtis and MacGillivray's availability via his Twitter account on Monday afternoon.

The south-coast outfit are currently sitting 15th in the table after winning just four of their first 14 matches, but they now have an opportunity to launch a cup run when they travel to face Harrogate next Monday.

 

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The Verdict

This will certainly come as a boost for Portsmouth, seeing as Curtis and MacGillivray are regulars in the side, but I'm sure their supporters will hope they have enough quality to see off Harrogate regardless of the duo's presence.

Portsmouth have made an underwhelming start to the campaign, but they now have a shot at launching a cup run to make amends for this, and they should overcome the challenge of Harrogate in the first round.

It could be detrimental to Jackett's future at the club if Portsmouth suffer a surprise defeat, even though the club are appearing to support the Pompey boss despite a disappointing start.