Isaac Hayden reveals who convinced him to join Portsmouth
Isaac Hayden says long-time teammate Matt Ritchie played a significant part in persuading him to join Portsmouth on loan this month.
The midfielder played alongside Ritchie for a number of years at Newcastle United, from whom he arrived at Fratton Park on a deal until the end of the season.
Speaking to Andy Moon of BBC Radio Solent (17 January), Hayden revealed the background behind his move to the South Coast and acknowledged the survival battle ahead, but is firmly of the belief that Pompey have enough to beat the drop.
“It was one of those where I’ve got a massive respect for Matty and I’ve known him for years. We always kept in contact and he asked if it was something I’d be interested in with a few phone calls. And of course, I was, as I wasn’t playing,” the Jamaican international recalled.
“It’s a fantastic football club with a lot of heritage, I spoke with the head coach, and I’m somebody who’s honest and straightforward and it felt like the club pushed to get me through the door. It wasn’t like that with other clubs who were umming and erring over it.
“You have to look at previous games, style of play, the squad, and realise the Championship is a fine margin. For me, there’s enough in the building to work with and it’s a situation of improving the away form, and continuing the good home form.”
Isaac Hayden brings seniority to Portsmouth
Experienced performers are the order of the transfer window this month for a Portsmouth side which boasts plenty of young talent, but probably not enough of it who can compete right now in a Championship survival battle.
Hayden brings with him considerable experience at both Premier League and Championship level and like Ritchie, has the background of high standards and years of playing alongside some top players.
Having graduated through the renowned Hale End academy at Arsenal – similarly to Zak Swanson – Hayden brings a calmness in possession and his career since has taught him the steeliness which is vital in Pompey’s midfield.
The 29-year-old has also operated at centre-half on occasion and could become an extra option with Mousinho having exhausted multiple partnerships at the back in a trial and error system, following the injuries to key defenders.
Pompey remain under pressure to do more business in the following fortnight, with both signings and departures needed to shape the squad for what could be a gruelling four months.
In other Portsmouth news, the Blues are scalded by an FA fine after what happened last season.
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