Portsmouth fans react to Callum Lang development after Preston bid
Portsmouth fans have had a lot to be optimistic about this summer.
Pompey have completed two promising new signings in Adrian Segecic and John Swift. Meanwhile, John Mousinho’s side have performed well during their pre-season, scoring eight goals and conceding none.
However, during the transfer window, it doesn’t take long for optimism to turn to dread.
Callum Lang’s absence v Crawley due to hamstring troubles
Preston North End have reportedly had a £2million bid for Callum Lang rejected, with the forward absent from the 1-0 win against Crawley on Saturday (19 July).
Lang’s absence had some fans worried that he could be planning his exit from Fratton Park. However, The News reported on Sunday (20 July) that Lang’s absence was due to troubles with his hamstring, rather than preparations for a transfer.
Lang has been protecting his hamstring for much of Portsmouth’s pre-season schedule. He didn’t take part in the training camp in Slovakia and hasn’t featured in any pre-season friendlies yet.
It’s not a serious problem that should keep him out of Championship fixtures. Instead, he has suggested it’s just a case of easing himself back into the action.
Lang could even feature in the upcoming friendlies against Reading, Havant and Waterlooville and PEC Zwolle, and Portsmouth fans have had their say on recent transfer developments involving the 26-year-old.
Preston’s £2m bid for Lang is laughable
Lang proved himself as one of the most dangerous playmakers in the Championship last season.
He bagged 10 goals in 32 league appearances for a Portsmouth side that was battling against relegation. He would have surely scored more if it weren’t for his hamstring injury.
Lang is 26 years old and has a year left on his contract. The going rate for a player like that is far higher than £2m.
| Appearances | Minutes Played | Goals | Assists |
| 32 | 2455 | 10 | 2 |
If Preston doubled their bid, Pompey fans might have reason to worry. However, they might also question why Lang would want to join a team that finished below the Blues last season.
The obvious answer is: money. That’s why Pompey chiefs need to hurry up and offer Lang an improved deal.
Supporters have pleaded with Pompey to offer Lang a new contract sooner rather than later. Perhaps this bid might encourage the board to stop stalling and offer him a deal he can’t refuse.
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