Jacobs relished time under Cook – now he can’t wait for Jackett to see his progress

POMPEY new-boy Michael Jacobs revealed he’s enjoyed playing under Kenny Jackett and Paul Cook during his career.

The three-time League One title winner has had success when playing for both managers.

Jacobs was part of Jackett's Wolves side that romped to the third-tier crown with a record number of points in 2014.

Four years later, he was part of Cook’s Wigan team that clinched the League One gong – only 12 months after the Liverpudlian infamously swapped the Fratton Park hot seat for the DW Stadium.

The two supremos have contrasting brands of football, with Cook’s based on possession and Jackett’s amore pragmatic style that emphasises hitting teams swiftly on the break.

Jacobs has relished being part of both teams, though, as he now reunites with Jackett at Fratton Park.

The forward, who made his Pompey debut as a 66th-minute substitute at Rochdale on Sunday said: ‘I enjoyed playing under both managers.

‘Paul Cook was great for me, he gave me an opportunity to play week in, week out and I made more than 100 appearances for him over three years.

‘I had a fantastic relationship with him and likewise with

Kenny in the League One season (Wolves were promoted).

‘It didn't quite work out in the Championship but, at the end of the day, you build relationships with managers and that's why they ring you up five years later asking to come back.

‘I've got a good relationship with a lot of former managers and those two are just two of them.’

Jacobs left Wigan at the end of last season following their relegation from the Championship.

Having not had a traditional pre-season campaign under his belt, the 28-year-old is playing catchup in terms of fitness.

But Jacobs believes already knowing the demands of Jackett will get him up to speed quicker than it would elsewhere. He added: ‘It does help, coming in a little bit later.

‘Knowing what he wants in terms of playing style and his mentality and work ethic helps coming in a bit later on.

‘It stands me in good stead coming into it.’

Jacobs is set with a reunion with former club Wigan on Saturday, with the Latics due to travel to Fratton Park in League One (3pm kick off).