Blues boss pays tribute to departed midfielder

KENNY Jackett has paid tribute to ‘terrific servant’ Gareth Evans.

The 32-year-old left Fratton Park on Friday to complete a return to former club Bradford City.

The free transfer switch earned a two-year deal for Evans, while enabling him and his young family to return to their native Manchester area.

Evans appeared as a substitute in Bradford’s 2-1 victory over Stevenage at Valley Parade on Saturday.

Meanwhile, in his absence, the Blues slumped to a dismal 2-1 defeat by Wigan Athletic.

Jackett, who once appointed Evans as his vice-captain, told The News: ‘Obviously Gareth gets a two-year deal which does keep him playing.

‘He’s been a terrific servant. In my time here he has played 120 games, 95 of them starts, and will, I am sure, be capable of playing right the way through his 30s, he’s a fit enough lad.

‘He’s captained the side at different times, in different competitions, and been a very good servant to the club and during my time here. I thank him for what he’s done.

‘Enquiries and situations build up and then you talk about what’s the best thing and where we are.

‘He did feel it was obviously at the right time – and we understand that.’

Wearing the number 17 shirt, Evans climbed off the bench in the 66th minute on Saturday to make his second debut for Bradford.

Evans made 85 appearances and scored 14 times during his previous spell at Valley Parade, before departing in June 2011.

He later spent more than five years at Fratton Park, winning the League Two title and Checkatrade Trophy.

Pompey fans mourned his departure at the end of last week following 218 games and 38 goals for the club.