Conor Shaughnessy wowed by Portsmouth signing who has looked ‘sharp in training’
Portsmouth’s biggest game of the season against Southampton is just around the corner
St. Mary’s will host the first South Coast Derby since 2019 this Sunday, with both teams eager for local bragging rights.
Portsmouth fans will want revenge on Southampton after being beaten 4-0 at home last time the two sides met.
John Mousinho’s side sit just one point outside the play-offs after a good start to the Championship season.
A win over their great rivals would give their fans real optimism going forward.
Conor Shaughnessy praises new signing Conor Chaplin
Conor Shaughnessy has been speaking ahead of the game and has been full of praise for new teammate Conor Chaplin.
He said: “He’s settled in straight away. Really good lad, really sound. I think the lads have welcomed him and got a bit of a buzz around the place. Obviously, got a great reaction from the fanbase, so we know how big that is for the fans and the club, and we know the quality that he brings, and we’ve seen it this week.”
Chaplin returned to Pompey after signing from Ipswich, and his first game could be against Southampton.
Shaughnessy also spoke of the ability of Chaplin and the impact he can have on the team: “He’s been sharp in training, looks like a really good player, we know that. It’s exciting times for the club, and he’ll show how good a player he is for us this weekend.”
Chaplin adds a wealth of experience to the Pompey side and could end up being the difference on Sunday.
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Chaplin in line for second Portsmouth debut
Chaplin has been tipped to start for Portsmouth this weekend and could be the extra bit of quality they need.
The 28-year-old is back at Fratton Park with Premier League experience under his belt and won’t be fazed by the hostile atmosphere.
- Chaplin joined his boyhood club, Portsmouth, aged 6
- He made over 100 appearances for Pompey and scored 25 goals
- He played 15 Premier League games last year, scoring once
Chaplin will likely start behind Colby Bishop and will look to provide the striker with quality service.
If Mousinho can unlock Chaplin, he may be able to give Portsmouth fans their first win against Southampton since 2010.
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