'No way on earth': The selfless Pompey gesture which created iconic Fratton moment

Paul Cook's bold call hands Pompey a golden chance

Pompey boss Paul Cook made a huge call in the January transfer window of 2020. He allowed Ronan Curtis to leave Fratton Park and join Oxford on loan for the rest of the season.

It was a brave decision, with Pompey chasing promotion from League One at the time. Curtis had been one of the club's standout performers that season, and his goals and assists had helped Pompey climb the table.

Cook's gamble pays off

However, Cook's gamble paid off handsomely. Pompey went on to win promotion to the Championship that season, and Curtis played a key role in Oxford's successful campaign in League One.

The winger scored 11 goals and provided 12 assists in all competitions for Oxford, helping them to finish in the play-offs. He was also named in the League One PFA Team of the Year.

Curtis's form for Oxford earned him a recall to the Pompey team in the summer of 2020. He has since become a key player for the club, and his goals and assists have helped Pompey establish themselves in the Championship.

Cook's decision to allow Curtis to leave on loan was a big one, but it ultimately proved to be the right one. Curtis has returned to Pompey a better player, and he is now one of the most important players in the team.

Curtis's gesture creates iconic Fratton moment

In Pompey's final home game of the 2019/20 season, Curtis scored a stunning goal against Fleetwood Town. After receiving the ball on the left wing, he cut inside and curled a beautiful shot into the top corner.

The goal was a moment of magic, and it was made even more special by Curtis's celebration. After scoring, he ran to the Pompey fans in the Fratton End and bowed to them.

Curtis's gesture was a sign of his appreciation for the Pompey fans. He had been criticized by some fans for his decision to leave the club on loan, but he showed with his celebration that he still cares deeply about Pompey.

Curtis's gesture created an iconic Fratton moment. It was a moment that showed the bond between the player and the fans, and it will be remembered for many years to come.