Mousinho expects big things from 'permanent' Portsmouth signing
John Mousinho has outlined his plans for one of his Blues players ahead of the next Championship campaign.
Perhaps against all odds, Portsmouth secured their status as a Championship club this season, and Mousinho deserves a lot of credit for that.
In the end, it proved to be fairly comfortable for Pompey, who caused plenty of upsets throughout the campaign, including a win against the league winners Leeds.
However, Portsmouth will be looking to build on that achievement next time out, and Mousinho has already set a target for a player who could be crucial for their ambitions.
Harvey Blair urged to kick on at Portsmouth next season
It has been a frustrating season for Harvey Blair, who, despite injury concerns at Fratton Park, started just three times for Pompey, scoring one goal.
Having arrived on a free transfer from Liverpool last summer, many had high hopes for the 21-year-old, and Mousinho is hoping to see that from him next season.
"My challenge to Harvey is to come back in the summer and have a full pre-season with us, which he didn’t have last year, and be at it in terms of his fitness," he said via The News.
| Portsmouth | Appearances | Starts | Goals | Assists |
| Blair | 12 | 3 | 1 | 0 |
"In terms of his development, I want him to treat this year almost like it was his first loan. So it’s almost that’s your first loan and we’re getting you back for your second loan next season, but thankfully we’ve got him as a permanent player - I’m expecting big things from Harvey."
Blair typically operates off the right flank, which, when taking into account the form of Josh Murphy throughout the season, comes as little surprise to have seen him play such a limited number of minutes.
However, with bigger and better aspirations for Portsmouth next season, rotation will be key, and Blair will need to showcase that he has the quality to make the step up when required.
Portsmouth must keep progressing in Championship
After promotion from League One, the one and only goal was to achieve survival. However, now with that in the bag, the Blues need to take the measures required to improve each season from now.
Consolidation will be the next step for Pompey, and with Mousinho at the helm, they have the ability to achieve that, but recruitment will play a big role.
Portsmouth need to get that aspect right to ensure that Mousinho has the tools to succeed next campaign.