Portsmouth make ‘huge mistake’ as Matt Ritchie exit bombshell emerges
Portsmouth look set to lose Matt Ritchie before their second season back in the Championship.
Despite being 35, Ritchie was an important cog in John Mousinho’s side last season as the Blues upset the odds and avoided relegation.
The winger featured 39 times but looks to be on his way out of Fratton Park after Pompey were unable to give him a guarantee of consistent minutes moving forward.
Mousinho is now set to lose a leader in the dressing room, with multiple Championship clubs already interested in Ritchie.
Pompey fans disappointed with Ritchie exit news
Pompey fans have not been shy when it comes to sharing their desire to see further signings.
Adrian Segecic remains the Blues’ only addition of the summer so far, but the young Aussie will no longer have the experience of Ritchie in PO4 to help him settle into English football.
With Pompey also lagging behind Norwich in their pursuit of Silkeborg IF midfielder Pelle Mattsson, the atmosphere could quickly turn toxic if new players aren’t brought in.
Fans were quick to react to Ritchie’s departure under a post from Jordan Cross on X (9 July), who shared the “bombshell news.”
Pompey must replace Ritchie
Ritchie’s impending exit has led to speculation from supporters that the Blues may be signing a new right winger, and that is why they couldn’t guarantee him regular minutes.
Whether they initially planned to or not, Andy Cullen and Co must now make another attacker the priority in the transfer window, regardless.
Pompey’s CEO revealed plans to be patient in the summer and wait for the Premier League teams to finish their pre-season tours before attempting to lure talent in need of playing time to Fratton Park.
This plan to replace Freddie Potts may now also be used on Ritchie.
For now, Pompey supporters should trust the hierarchy and see what players they bring in later on in the window, albeit a nervous wait.
If they recruit poorly, then Mousinho will have a tough task in keeping the Blues in the Championship.
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