Isaac Hayden ‘welcome back’ at Portsmouth as Mousinho told to strike deal
John Mousinho has a big job ahead of him in the summer transfer window as he looks to strengthen Portsmouth for next season.
It was a big task, but Pompey managed to secure a second consecutive season of Championship football.
The key now is to build upon what they have started, which will require Mousinho to add new faces to his side.
Isaac Hayden Portsmouth loan comes to an end
Since joining Portsmouth on loan for the second half of the season, Isaac Hayden has become popular at Fratton Park.
The 30-year-old has made 17 appearances and his experience on and off the pitch has certainly boosted his side in their push for safety.
With his loan spell coming to an end now the season is over, Hayden wasted no time in taking to X to send a message to the supporters in which he thanked them and apologised for the poor away for this term.
His words represented why he is a popular player, with his mature and open tone resonating with supporters.
What the future holds is yet to be seen, with the midfielder under contract with Newcastle United until 2026.
However, in response to his message, supporters made it clear that they want Hayden to return to the South Coast next season with replies including: “Sign him up,” and “Stay.”
Portsmouth should try and get Hayden once more
As Mousinho considers the decisions that lie ahead of him, if getting Hayden’s services again were a possibility, it seems unlikely that he wouldn’t be keen.
As Pompey look to solidify their position in the second tier, having someone who has extensive experience at a high level and has won the league will only help the less experienced players in the side.
Not only is he a good head to have in the dressing room, but his performances for Pompey have been good and he has continuously shown his strength.
| Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| 17 | 0 | 0 |
It is clear that his future does not lie with Newcastle in the top flight, although whether he will exit his contract at this stage or see it out is yet to be seen.
Nevertheless, the Magpies are seemingly happy for him to be on loan in the Championship, so if all parties wanted to strike a deal, it shouldn’t be too hard to see happening.
There will naturally be factors outside of Portsmouth’s control in this one but the boss should certainly be pushing to explore whether another deal is a possibility.