Portsmouth exodus continues as six more exits announced by Jay Sadler
Portsmouth Women have confirmed that six of their players will be parting ways with the club at the end of the season.
This comes after the men’s team announced that six players will be leaving once their deals run out.
After an excellent season in the Championship, the women’s side are looking to build for the future.
Annie Rolf among six players to leave Pompey Women
Six players, including Nicole Barrett, Erin McLaughlin, Daisy McLachlan, Annie Rolf, Ella Humphrey, and Scarlett Williams, are leaving Pompey.
Rolf, Barrett, Humphrey, and McLachlan made significant contributions, with Rolf playing 78 matches, Barrett scoring 12 goals in 67 appearances, Humphrey netting 10 in 39 games, and McLachlan scoring 20 in 55 outings, while Williams featured in 15 matches.
McLaughlin, an Irish international, played 24 times after joining from Peamount United for Pompey’s first Championship season.
| Portsmouth Women | |
| 2023-24 | Promoted to Championship |
| 2024-25 | Turned full-time, stayed up in Championship |
Pompey head coach Jay Sadler said: “Saying goodbye to players is never easy. At the end of the day, they’re people with emotions – individuals I’ve got to know well during their time here.
“We’re incredibly grateful to all those who are moving on. Every one of them has played a vital part in our successes this season and have carried themselves with great endeavour.
“A key part of our culture is ensuring players leave the club on good terms and I want them to know they’ll always be part of this football family. Everyone connected with Pompey wishes them all the best for the future.”
Portsmouth must build for the future
The departure of six players and the return of six loanees from the Portsmouth Women’s squad is a natural part of football’s cycle, reflecting the constant evolution required to stay competitive.
Players like Barrett, Rolf, and Humphrey, who contributed significantly with 67, 78 and 39 appearances respectively, have been integral to Pompey’s recent successes, including their National League title and Championship promotion.
However, their exits, alongside loan returns like Jazz Bull and Hannah Poulter, are standard as clubs reassess squads to align with future ambitions.
Sadler’s acknowledgement of their contributions underscores Pompey’s commitment to maintaining positive relationships, ensuring a strong club culture.
With 10 players under contract and options taken on Ava Rowbotham, Emily Pitman, and Izzy Collins, Portsmouth are poised to build on their Championship campaign.
The club will undoubtedly target strategic signings to bolster their squad, aiming to improve depth and quality.
This turnover, while emotional, is a necessary step for Pompey to elevate their performance and compete at a higher level next season