John Mousinho shares what he’s loved from Josh Murphy and co. in Portsmouth pre-season
John Mousinho has given his early verdict on the clutch of new Portsmouth signings who are currently out in Croatia with the squad.
The Pompey head coach, speaking to BBC Radio Solent [9 July], has run a quick rule over the first few days of pre-season for the quintet of new faces at the club: Josh Murphy, Jordan Williams, Jordan Archer, Sam Silvera and Reuben Swann.
The Blues boss had also admitted that his focus on transfers had taken a backseat with pre-season training now having started, with sporting director Rich Hughes taking the baton in the background.
“We’re pleased with the recruitment so far – the new lads have looked really sharp,” Mousinho said.
“The free transfers of Josh [Murphy] and Jordan [Williams], they fit into the group really well, certainly from the perspective of having that Championship experience. Sammy [Silvera] is the same, has looked really bright and the boys have lifted the group.
“Jordan [Archer] is a similar goalkeeper to Will [Norris] which is important for us, and he brings a lot of experience. Reuben [Swann] has come in from Sudbury and done really well – you would never know it’s been his first couple of weeks training full-time with a Championship club.”
Josh Murphy and Portsmouth new boys fitting right in during pre-season
Further recruits are certain at Fratton Park this summer with a month to go until the curtain is raised on the new Championship season, with Portsmouth travelling to Elland Road for a salivating clash with Leeds United.
In terms of the pre-season schedule, the Croatian camp is purely for a rigorous training routine in a warmer climate, with no friendly matches pencilled in.
Friendly matches begin upon Pompey’s return, with trips to non-league neighbours Gosport Borough, Havant & Waterlooville and Bognor Regis Town all within the space of four days starting next week.
EFL opposition then beckons on 30 July with a trip to face MK Dons of League Two, before four days later travelling to London to take on Charlton Athletic at The Valley, from League One.
There are no pre-season matches being hosted at Fratton Park this year, due to ongoing refurbishment works.
In other Portsmouth news, David Norris discusses Brett Pitman’s prolific non-league career after life at Fratton Park.
For more Portsmouth news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.