‘Portsmouth fans will love John Swift’ after crying out for new transfer
Portsmouth are still on the lookout for new signings before the Championship season begins.
The Blues have only signed two new players so far this summer: Adrian Segecic and John Swift.
While supporters generally seem excited about Segecic, some fans seem concerned about Swift’s fall from grace at West Bromwich Albion.
The midfielder struggled for form at The Hawthorns last season, and many Baggies fans were pleased to see him released.
Ian Darke lauds Portsmouth for signing John Swift
Iconic commentator Ian Darke doesn’t share these concerns about Swift.
Speaking exclusively to Pompey News, he predicted that the midfielder would thrive at Fratton Park, with fans backed to take to him immediately.
“John Swift is a player I’ve always liked. I think he’s got a bit of a bit of flair and he’s definitely got some creativity. He’s good from dead-ball situations.
“I think Pompey have been crying out for somebody who’s a creative number 10 type, and have sometimes struggled to break teams down.
“I think he’s definitely going to help in that department. I think the fans will get to like him, as a player who’s something a little different from anything they’ve seen in more recent times.“
Portsmouth still need some more midfielders
Swift was mostly utilised in the ‘number 10’ role by West Brom, although John Mousinho has suggested that he might use him deeper in his midfield.
That would allow him to position either Segecic or Callum Lang in their preferred position just behind the striker, adding more creativity throughout.
| Appearances | Minutes Played | Goals | Assists |
| 37 | 1819 | 3 | 1 |
Either way, Mousinho’s Pompey squad still looks short of midfielders.
In an ideal world, he’d find another experienced centre-midfielder to partner Swift. He could also do with a right-winger to replace the outgoing Matt Ritchie and a left-winger to serve as understudy to Josh Murphy.
If any of these players could also serve as a back-up striker, that would be a bonus, as Portsmouth are lacking here as well. Colby Bishop and Thomas Waddingham are currently Mousinho’s only recognised forwards.
With these players recruited, the Blues would stand a great chance of improving on last season’s 16th-place finish in the Championship.
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