Cowley: Why I wanted to keep Jacobs

Danny Cowley has revealed the reasons why he was determined to tie Michael Jacobs down to a new Pompey contract.

The Blues boss also provided an insight into the 30-yearold’s desire to remain at Fratton Park, after the attacking midfielder penned a fresh one-year deal with the club.

Jacobs’ stay was confirmed yesterday as he became the latest out-of-contract player to commit his future to Pompey.

The fans’ favourite joins Sean Raggett, Marcus Harness, Louis Thompson, Reeco Hackett, Jay Mingi and Jayden Reid in agreeing fresh terms, extending his stay until the summer of 2023.

The former Wigan man takes Cowley’s squad size up to 18 – a number that includes youngsters Toby Steward and Harry Jewitt-White – with Aiden O’Brien’s future the only one still to be decided.

There was interest from elsewhere in Jacobs, with both formerclubNorthamptonand Mansfield keen.

It’s not clear whether Jacobs’ new deal is incentivebased – as had been previously reported last month. Regardless, Cowley highlighted some of Jacobs’ key attributes as he welcomed a deal being struck.

The Pompey boss told the club website: ‘We’re really pleased to be able to extend Michael’s contract. He brings quality and has an amazing ability to find space and unlock opposition defences to create and score goals.

‘Michael also has an excellent set-piece delivery and so we’re delighted that he’s staying with us for another season.’

Cowley added: ‘There would have been other options for him, but he (Michael) probably feels that there’s some unfinished business for him here. I also know that he really appreciates the support he’s received from the Fratton faithful. He feels at home here.’