Josh Murphy transfer hands Portsmouth new Championship boost
Dan Bardell has praised Portsmouth for the signing of Josh Murphy from Oxford United on a free transfer this summer.
Pompey confirmed a deal to bring the Englishman to the club on Wednesday (26 June) in a deal which came out of the blue.
After scoring the goals that secured promotion to the Championship through the Play-Offs, it is a testament to John Mousinho that he can encourage him to move to Fratton Park.
Sky Sports and talkSPORT journalist Bardell has spoken out about the difference that the deal could prove to make next season.
Speaking exclusively to Pompey News, Bardell said: “It’s a big signing because you’re strengthening your team while weakening another who are probably going to be in and around you.
“Portsmouth and Oxford United both got promoted last season so that is a real coup for them. He’s got true experience of the EFL and has done well across multiple leagues.
“The main question is, does he improve the starting XI? Yes. He’s also going to weaken a direct rival which is also a positive thing.
“It shows the pull of Portsmouth as well, he obviously thinks they’re a bigger club and have a better project moving forward.“
Portsmouth land Josh Murphy free transfer
The 29-year-old brings plenty of Championship experience with him having played for the likes of Norwich City, Cardiff City and Preston.
This could prove to be invaluable moving forward into the new season as Pompey looks to avoid instant relegation back to League One.
One aspect of the transfer window will be keeping hold of key stars while also adding fresh faces and quality to Mousinho’s squad.
This has already begun in good fashion with Marlon Pack signing a new deal, complimenting the signing of Murphy.
The winger has signed a three-year deal at Fratton Park and will hope that he can inspire his new side up the Championship table.
This signing will also take away from Oxford United’s survival hopes which can only be a good thing and benefit Pompey.
This a cut-throat approach which is exactly what Portsmouth need this summer to prepare for a season in the second tier.
In other Portsmouth news, fixtures officially announced with tough first fixture on Championship return.
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