Bramall ‘has to sign new Portsmouth deal’ after on-pitch revelation
Cohen Bramall can be a key, versatile operator for Portsmouth as pressure builds from supporters to give the January signing a new contract.
Bramall arrived from Rotherham United in a short-term deal which expires at the end of the season, and has made sporadic appearances since.
Connor Ogilvie has been the first-choice left-back at Fratton Park but moved into central defence for the defeat at Preston on Saturday (15 March), meaning Bramall started in behind Josh Murphy.
Bramall is a modern attacking full-back
One thing Bramall was able to demonstrate against Preston at Deepdale was his ability going forward as well as defensively.
If there was one critique of one of Pompey’s better players on a frustrating day, it’s that he failed to track his runner through the middle for the decisive goal – though he wasn’t required anyway as Stefan Thordarson went alone to score the late winner.
However, he made the highest number of tackles of any Blues player, mopping up the minor mistakes of others, and was always eager to support Murphy down the left flank.
Ogilvie has also shown his attacking qualities from the backline this season, excellently assisting Colby Bishop’s winner against Leeds United recently (9 March) and chipping in with four Championship goals.
His defensive versatility fixes a pressing issue for John Mousinho at centre-half due to constant injury worries, and allows Bramall to come in and do a job.
The 28-year-old former Arsenal prodigy could also be adept further forward on the left wing, and could even fill a void if Murphy needs a rest – though this is now unlikely to be the case with the increased urgency that has emerged to pick up points.
Portsmouth have announced several new contracts recently
Portsmouth have acted quickly to retain players’ services long-term, keeping on top of proceedings despite their ongoing battle for safety.
While the Blues look to accumulate enough points to avoid the drop – which would still take a catastrophic downturn in form with teams below them improving – they have ensured the behind-the-scenes operations are working smoothly.
Bishop, Terry Devlin and Regan Poole have recently all penned new deals, and with several stars out of contract this summer or on loan with their futures unclear, it will be intriguing to see what Pompey can do.
| Portsmouth – out of contract players in 2025 | Club option |
| Cohen Bramall | No |
| Andre Dozzell | 1 year |
| Kusini Yengi | 1 year |
| Ben Killip | No |
| Zak Swanson | 1 year |
| Alexander Milosevic | No |
Bramall is a player with enough experience to come in with no fuss and play his part, while also young enough to be suitably tied down to a two or three-year deal. He has Championship experience, and his history with Arsenal tells you all you need to know about his comfort on the ball.
Pompey’s squad will continue to significantly change throughout 2025, but Bramall is one man who needs to be retained.