Finance expert reacts to Portsmouth investment into Fratton Park
Dan Plumley says Portsmouth are making a wise decision in investing significantly into Fratton Park and the club’s wider infrastructure.
The sport finance expert admits Pompey’s facilities at their home stadium fall into the same category as other English clubs in needing a revamp, particularly given the club’s return to the Championship and future ambitions under the Eisners.
It was revealed earlier this summer that the club have invested north of £15m into key refurbishment works at Fratton Park ahead of the 2024-25 season, in which the first home clash will be a Carabao Cup first round tie against Millwall on 13 August.
“Absolutely [stadiums need upgrading]. The thing with a lot of English football stadiums is that for a lot of clubs now, they need a bit of work and Portsmouth are a good example,” Plumley exclusively told Pompey News.
“That’s no disrespect to Portsmouth as there are plenty of clubs in the same bracket; the alternative clubs have is building a new stadium fit for the modern era – which depends on land availability as well.
“You only have two choices, and the history of a stadium and the emotional angle to that are factors you have to consider. For Portsmouth, that investment is just needed and can be planned for further growth in the future if the club are aiming for the Premier League.”
Portsmouth using funds in right way for the future
Portsmouth supporters would be forgiven for still rubbing their eyes and adjusting themselves in their seat to see sensible and proactive financial decisions made for the benefit of the club.
Given the haphazard and downright reckless moves made in the earlier parts of the century which plunged the club within a close-up reflection of sinking altogether, the Eisners are carrying the flame well with some well-needed investment.
Fratton Park is a stadium of staunch tradition which is carefully being maintained whilst essential works are carried out, enabling a smoother and more exciting matchday experience for fans and keeping pace with some heavyweight Championship rivals.
Kieran Maguire confirmed earlier this month a further £9m of funds had been injected into the club, which will doubtless help keep the progress ticking into the season.
Pompey fans are of course eagerly anticipating capital to be spent from the transfer kitty following a series of free transfers and loan signings so far this summer, as the club look to achieve parallel success both on and off the field.
In other Portsmouth news, the club have not given up on an Alex Robertson return.
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