Portsmouth have completed the signing of Doncaster Rovers striker John Marquis for an undisclosed fee on a three-year deal. Reports from the Sunderland Echo suggests that the Pompey have paid more than £1m to land the striker. The forward was seen as a replacement of Josh Maja in January by Sunderland, and they even launched two bids for him.
However, Doncaster kept hold of him, and Sunderland instead went on to sign Will Grigg. Now Portsmouth have stolen a march over the Black Cats to complete the deal for the striker this summer.
Jackett on new signing
Kenny Jackett seemed delighted with the new signing. He said, ”I’m really pleased to work with John again after giving him his debut at Millwall. He’s a proven striker, who I believe is entering his prime, so it’s an excellent signing for us, and we’re delighted. John’s got a great goal record, but is also an all-round striker, who will work hard for the team and can bring other people into the game.”
The Pompey have shown ambition in the transfer market, and the signing of Marquis would definitely boost their attacking options. The 27-year-old had managed 26 goals for Doncaster in all competitions last season and was one of the most sought after strikers in the League One with newly promoted Charlton Athletic also interested.
Why Jackett needed Marquis?
The 27-year-old is currently in the prime of his career, and he will be an upgrade over the current options which Portsmouth have at their disposal. Oliver Hawkins managed ten goals in 48 appearances last season, and for a team looking to move up a division, that was simply not good enough.
The club also lost the services of Omar Bogle who impressed on loan after joining from Cardiff City in January. Brett Pitman is being utilised more as an attacking midfielder, so there was a definite need to bring in a standout strike option.
What can Marquis bring to the table?
The striker has 35 goals to his name in the last two seasons in the League One. Marquis’ stand out attribute is his strength and physicality as he can hold up play well. That allows him to bring in his team-mates into the game and the Englishman is also known for his link-up play.
He is often relentless in his approach and will work his socks off every time he is on the pitch. Even when Marquis doesn’t score goals, the forward does bring a lot of things for the team. Jackett has got a top signing who is currently at the peak of his powers.
