Rich Hughes shares update on new Portsmouth contract for Marlon Pack
Portsmouth sporting director Rich Hughes has issued updates on the contract situations of Marlon Pack and several Blues teammates.
The Pompey skipper’s existing contract will expire this summer after lifting the League One title, and he along with Connor Ogilvie have been offered new deals.
The duo are the only out-of-contract players to be offered fresh terms with 10 league winners released and talks ongoing with other members of the squad, and speaking to The News, Hughes has delivered the latest.
“The fact we haven’t offered a lot of contracts shows how hugely important Marlon and Connor are to us,” the sporting director explained.
“They have already been offered contracts and obviously been having a well-deserved break. Once they get back, they will speak to their agents and we’ll have a conversation. Hopefully we can get two deals concluded.”
Joe Morrell and Zak Swanson both had club options of a 12-month extension on their expiring deals, which Pompey have decided against triggering – but talks will begin this week over finding a way to keep the duo at Fratton Park.
How important are the four players to Portsmouth?
With 10 first-team players let go, just two so far offered contracts and another two about to resume discussions, it’s clear Portsmouth are taking a required ruthless approach to their Championship return.
There is no room for sentiment at this stage in the club’s progression, demonstrated by the tough decisions made to release Sean Raggett and Joe Rafferty.
Local lad Pack represents everything Pompey stands for, and although soon to reach the twilight years of his career, is integral both on and off the pitch – his contract offer is little surprise.
Ogilvie has flourished at Fratton Park over the past year, and has made himself indispensable for John Mousinho and his staff.
Although with limited Championship experience, Morrell is a full Welsh international and brings big-game pedigree to the squad. If a deal were to be struck to keep the midfielder on the South Coast, this attribute could prove as important as Pack’s long service at second-tier level.
Swanson’s fitness is the key risk for an undoubtedly gifted and improving defender. A potential new contract offer may reflect appearances made next season.
In other Portsmouth news, Conor Shaughnessy has been branded with a significant label.
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