Mousinho shares what he finds ‘outstanding’ about Pack in hint on Portsmouth future
John Mousinho has opened up about the ongoing role that club captain Marlon Pack will have at Fratton Park.
Pack rarely started in midfield toward the end of this season, although he played a valuable role as an emergency centre-half following an injury crisis in defence.
With the skipper turning 34 years old, a few questions have been asked about his position in the team at Fratton Park.
And these questions might get louder as Portsmouth continue to be linked with new midfielders in the summer transfer window.
Mousinho loves Pack impact on Pompey squad
These transfer rumours might suggest that Mousinho doesn’t see much of a future for Pack in his first team.
However, in an interview with The News (29 May), the manager put these ideas to bed.
He said: “I absolutely love Marlon and he’s a huge part of the football club going forward.”
“This year he had to play out of position for the football club in a new league with some very, very athletic, brilliant centre-forwards and to do such a good job – at such a pivotal part of the season – we are incredibly grateful for that.
“Plus everything that Marlon did off the pitch as well. He’s an outstanding leader and an outstanding captain.”
Mousinho also confirmed that he believed Pack could still do a job in centre midfield, rather than converting into a new position.
Pack’s experience could be crucial to Pompey
Many Pompey fans would agree that new centre-midfielders should be a priority for John Mousinho in this summer’s transfer window.
Freddie Potts has returned to West Ham United after a successful loan spell at Fratton Park and Portsmouth have been linked with other young midfield stars to replace him.
However, Mousinho is an intelligent manager who will be only too aware of the value that experienced heads can provide in the dressing room.
Senior players like Pack will ensure that younger stars remain confident and composed, even during periods when their backs are against the wall.
| Appearances | Minutes Played | Goals | Assists |
| 41 | 2732 | 0 | 2 |
Pack was a consistent performer in midfield this year whenever he played there, and his role as make-shift centre-half during a difficult spell of the season shouldn’t be underestimated.
He was a force to be reckoned with in the last game of the season against Hull, before being forced to withdraw with an injury.
Pack is a Pompey boy. A model professional. He understands the fans. The Fratton faithful loves him. The club has to keep hold of him.
Mousinho is right to praise his performances for the club season, and you can bet he’ll be a key figure at Fratton Park next season.