Kenny Jackett has revealed the motivation behind dropping Portsmouth striker Ellis Harrison for the clash with Coventry City last night.

Pompey ended up losing the game 1-0 and continuously lacked an attacking threat throughout Tuesday night's fixture.

Jackett opted to start John Marquis up top, even though Harrison had started 12 of the last 14 League One fixtures.

His gamble didn't quite go to plan and the forward was brought on after 63 minutes anyway. He almost scored with his first touch but Marko Marosi kept his effort out.

Jackett revealed that, in part, Harrison did not start because of fatigue from the weekend and the need to reserve energy looking ahead.

Speaking to the Portsmouth News, Jackett said: "There were not many changes but the centre-forward one is an energy position and they are both capable players.

"Was Ellis tired from the weekend? Maybe. In terms of going forward we have six Tuesday-Saturdays on the trot so if there is some fresh energy needed we are going to use it."

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The Verdict

It was interesting to see Harrison dropped from the lineup. Although he's not the most clinical in front of goal, he definitely has the ability to work a defence.

His energy was missed throughout the early parts of the game and Portsmouth looked lacklustre without him in the frontline.

It's set to be an interesting final few months, and there will be lots of decisions for Jackett to make throughout as he looks to ensure promotion for his side.

The defeat on Tuesday night is just a minor setback for Pompey, and having won nine in a row before the loss, the squad should still be in high spirits heading into Saturday's clash with Shrewsbury Town.