Portsmouth boss Kenny Jackett has challenged striker Ellis Harrison to continue his good recent showing in front of goal for the Hampshire club.

The 25-year-old, who signed for Pompey in the summer from Ipswich Town, has scored six times for the club in all competitions this season.

Harrison found the net once again last weekend against Peterborough at Fratton Park, receiving the ball on the edge of the penalty area and unleashing a low shot on the turn. It was fumbled by Posh stopper Christy Pym, with the ball eventually finding its way into the bottom left hand corner.

He was awarded with Man of the Match for his efforts on the weekend, in what was the third successive game where he featured for the full ninety minutes.

Harrison has been deployed as the lone striker in Kenny Jackett's 4-2-3-1 formation of late, with fellow striker John Marquis playing behind him in the No.10 position.

Speaking to the Portsmouth News, the Pompey manager had positive words to say about the Welshman, stating that he has the potential to become an all-round No.9 because of his attributes.

"He has a little bit of everything in terms of our number nine. He has a strength and physicality, and on Saturday produced a good turn and goal by shooting low across the keeper [against Peterborough]."

Jackett also challenged Harrison to continue the good form for Pompey as the side have upcoming fixtures against Wycombe and Ipswich on the horizon.

"Ellis is continuing to do well for us and if you can get the right amount of crosses in he is very, very strong.

There is no reason why he can’t go on and be a good centre-forward for Pompey, he is growing into it well," he said.

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The Verdict

With Brett Pitman currently being used as a substitute, and Oli Hawkins filling in at centre-back, Harrison is Jackett's first-choice option in the striking position.

Jackett has put his faith in Harrison in recent weeks, it has paid off for Pompey. The challenge set to the 25-year-old by his manager should inspire him to keep working hard in training.