Rob Atkinson transfer divides Portsmouth opinion but early move has catch
Portsmouth have exceeded expectations over how quickly they would begin January transfer business, as Rob Atkinson signs at Fratton Park.
The centre-half has arrived from Bristol City on a loan deal as announced by the club on 3 January, vitally bolstering John Mousinho’s defensive options in a positive move.
Mousinho played alongside Atkinson at Oxford United during the twilight years of his playing career, utilising his contacts book once again in consultation with Rich Hughes and the recruitment staff.
The head coach admitted signings would probably not be through the door until mid-January, but they have already boxed off an experienced defender – however, there is one slight catch.
Portsmouth must rely on Atkinson staying fit
The catch is simply that Atkinson has not played for nearly two years, suffering a range of injury setbacks including a significant knee ligament recuperation.
The 26-year-old has featured on the bench for Bristol City in every game but one since 5 November, and is now considered to be fit to resume playing.
It will be an emotional moment for him as much as anyone to be back out there on the pitch, and the challenge is clear as he is about to step straight into a Championship survival battle.
The Blues and the Robins have exchanged blows over the past few weeks, facing off twice in the league with a 3-0 win for the home side on both occasions, the visitors failing to show up in either contest at Fratton Park or Ashton Gate.
The sceptics will of course view Pompey to be operating on the cheap again, but if Atkinson can stay fit – admittedly a gamble – he could contribute massively to keeping the Blues a Championship outfit next year.
Until proven otherwise, this is a positive step forward already this month.
In other Portsmouth news, the starting XI for the trip to Sunderland on Sunday is predicted.
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