Credit: Imago

Matthew Chadder

Mon 21 April 2025 20:00, UK

Portsmouth supporters will likely be keen for Rob Atkinson to remain at Fratton Park.

Atkinson joined Pompey on loan from Bristol City until the end of the season in early January.

After finding himself on the losing side during his first two matches in a Portsmouth shirt, John Mousinho’s side would go on to lose just one of the next seven matches in which Atkinson featured.

However, disaster then struck, as the centre-back suffered an injury in late February which kept him sidelined until his surprise return in the 2-2 Championship draw with Derby at Fratton Park on Saturday, 12 April.

Since the draw with the Rams, Portsmouth have won back-to-back games with Atkinson in the side, and after what happened against Watford on Monday (21 April), it is likely that the South Coast club are already planning talks with Bristol City.

Atkinson shines as Portsmouth secure Championship status

Portsmouth beat Watford 1-0 at Fratton Park, with Colby Bishop’s goal enough to seal the points and secure Pompey’s Championship status.

The clash on the South Coast wasn’t short of controversy, with Keith Hackett having his say while speaking exclusively with Pompey News. However, Mousinho won’t care one bit as his side were able to keep a clean sheet and get across the line, with Atkinson playing a huge role in the victory.

As per Sofascore, Atkinson won six of his seven ground duels and seven of his nine aerial duels, while he also completed 95 per cent of his passes and made an astonishing 16 clearances.

Portsmouth must try to keep hold of Atkinson

It was already made clear previously that Bristol City don’t plan on selling Atkinson.

However, after his impressive displays at the back, Pompey should try everything they can to get a permanent deal agreed. Britsol’s stance could soften, and that is why talks are likely to be held.