View: 78% star brings back memories of Portsmouth hero after what he did v Preston
Portsmouth may have found their new Gareth Evans in Terry Devlin after he impressed in the win against Preston on Saturday.
The 21-year-old played the full 90 minutes as Pompey beat Preston 3-1 at home to earn their first Championship win in five games on 9 November.
Colby Bishop deservingly grabbed the headlines by marking his return from a heart problem with a goal, but Devlin’s performance did not go unnoticed among fans.
Terry Devlin is new Gareth Evans at Portsmouth
Devlin has had to bide his time, with his first Championship start of the season coming in Portsmouth’s 2-1 loss to Sheffield Wednesday on 25 October. While his performance that day left much to be desired, the midfielder has since been impressive despite playing at right-back.
On Saturday, the Northern Irishman completed 25 of his 38 passes, including 11 into the final third and a chance-creating ball, with 66 per cent accuracy (FotMob). Meanwhile, only Ogilvie (65) registered more touches than him (60) among his teammates.
Devlin’s contributions in defence were commendable as he won both of the tackles he attempted, while making six clearances and as many clearances and made two interceptions.
The youngster was also formidable in aerial duels as he came out on top in seven of nine such instances (78 per cent). He won two of his three ground duels as well.
Portsmouth fans would not be wrong to see a bit of Evans in Devlin as the Pompey hero also became a favourite playing at right-back as a midfielder, particularly in the 2016-17 season.
Two months ago, John Mousinho had to be urged to give Devlin a chance, but now he is arguably one of the first names on the teamsheet.
In other Portsmouth news, Bishop has recalled the “horrific” experience of learning he needed an open heart surgery.
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