Atkinson appears to finally confirm Portsmouth and Bristol City transfer decision
Portsmouth defender Rob Atkinson was the hero as he scored a remarkable brace against Derby County, amid an uncertain future.
Atkinson joined Portsmouth on loan from Bristol City in January, but has struggled with injury in recent months and missed seven consecutive Championship games.
He returned from injury in style, as Atkinson netted twice while also scoring an own goal as Portsmouth drew 2-2 with Derby County, in one of the most chaotic games of the season.
Atkinson’s future has been unclear for some time, having himself tried to bat away questions on his future, but he has now dropped a major hint over his next steps.
Atkinson appears to confirm Portsmouth exit
The defender has now opened up on his recent injury issues, as well as Portsmouth’s relegation chances, and Atkinson has clearly enjoyed his time at Fratton Park.
“It’s not done, I won’t be happy until we’re definitely safe and playing Championship football again next season,” Atkinson told BBC Radio Solent (14 April) after the draw with Derby.
“I feel the club owes me nothing and I owe a tremendous amount to the club because they took a big, big gamble on me and I’ll forever be grateful for that.”
| Stat | Atkinson |
| Appearances | 11 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Assists | 1 |
Atkinson then appeared to confirm his exit by referring to Portsmouth as “you” rather than “we.”
“I think this football club is going to be way better than that next season,” he added.
“They’ve got the nucleus, the core of players that are dangerous and will cause any defence – as we have this season – trouble.
“With a home record and a home ground like this… just need to fix that away form and you could be well up there.”
Portsmouth should try to keep Atkinson next season
John Mousinho’s side have struggled defensively at times, and the inability to keep consistency in the back four has played a huge part in recent weeks.
Atkinson was sorely missed while he was injured, with Pompey struggling against aerial threats as seen in their defeat to Millwall, and they won just two of the seven games he missed.
If a deal can be struck to keep Atkinson next season, then Pompey should aim to complete it and enjoy a full season of the defensive powerhouse at the back, but it is unclear whether Bristol City would want to keep the 26-year-old.