John Mousinho backed over ‘harsh’ summer transfer decision at Portsmouth
David Norris says Portsmouth letting go of Joe Rafferty and Sean Raggett was “harsh”, but accepts John Mousinho ultimately knows best.
Long-serving Raggett and fellow defender Rafferty were released by Portsmouth this month after helping the club to Championship promotion.
Both men are set for another season of League One football with Rotherham United, and Norris has backed the decision taken by Pompey.
“You can’t really question the manager,” the former midfielder told Pompey News. “I think it was harsh, and a I know plenty of fans would have liked them to have stayed after what they did. Rotherham will certainly be a force now next season.
“I’d have liked to have seen Rafferty have a go in the Championship and see what happens, but you can’t question the manager after what he’s done.
“You won’t know if it’s the right or wrong decision, but you have to go with what he says because he’s done such a good job.
“With Raggs, it’s a little bit more head versus heart. He exceeded expectations after coming back from injury, but again, you can’t question the manager.”
Portsmouth make big call over player contracts
There was always going to be a period of uncertainty at Fratton Park this summer given the number of players out of contract.
Raggett admitted to being “surprised” by the club’s decision not to offer him fresh terms, but he has quickly moved on – as has Rafferty.
There is a case to be argued for both staying on at Fratton Park, but the club clearly feel they are in a position to bring in stronger options.
Jordan Williams has arrived from Barnsley already so that is certainly a positive development on that front.
As Norris says, Mousinho knows best with regards to what the club need to do. Let’s just hope he is sufficiently backed between now and 31 August.
In other Portsmouth news, Norris is “excited” by some confirmed transfer news at Fratton Park.
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