x

Fratton full-back positions look stronger as Mousinho gets Pompey business done

Pompey's early transfer window business has certainly made them look stronger in the full-back positions.

They have recruited former Barnsley captain Jordan Williams, who looks set to slot in as first choice in place of Joe Rafferty, who was released at the end of the season.

And they have agreed new terms with Connor Ogilvie, who is set to be John Mousinho's first choice on the left.

Williams told the Pompey website he was excited to join a club he had seen win promotion and the title on that remarkable night just two months agio when the Tykes were beaten

He said: 'I heard of the interest a while back and as soon as the paperwork was done, I was delighted to come over. I flew back from my holiday to sign here and I’m over the moon because of the feel around the whole place.

'The way this club is going is upwards and that matches my career path. The way Rich and the gaffer sold the club to me, I want to be a part of it. I was looking for the perfect fit and this is a big change for me because I’ve always been up north, but I feel like this can be my new home.

'When I was at Barnsley and we played at Fratton Park the night Pompey were promoted, it was a special feeling. I want to be a part of that and to be on this side of it. It was disappointing at the time because we lost, but the atmosphere with the fans celebrating at the end is something I’ll remember for the first of my life.

'Now I’m eager to get out on the training pitch, meet all the lads and just get going. I want the season to start and am raring to go.'

As for Ogilvie, there never seemed to be too much doubt he would sign a new deal but Mousinoho is pleaesed to get it in writing.

Mousinho told the Pompey website: 'We’re delighted that Connor has signed a new deal – he’s been brilliant for me ever since I arrived at the club. He fully deserved to be offered a contract and is someone that we believe can make the step up to the next level.

'Connor is an extremely solid – and versatile – defender, while also offering a lot for the team going forward. Our record with him in the team is excellent and I’m excited to see what he can do in the Championship.'

What to read next:

Pompey fans can have their say on wide range of Fratton issues
The Pompey Supporters’ Trust have launched their latest annual supporter survey and are urging fans to give their opinions on a range of topics.
Massive threat - Pompey boss recommends ignoring Luton's league position
They may be out of form - but John Mousinho is not reading anything into the recent form of Luton, Pompey's hosts this weekend.
Portsmouth 2 - 1 Queens Park Rangers - Player Ratings and Reports
If you saw the match, please give us your player ratings and a mini match report.
No respite - 'keep going' is Mousinho's message to troops after six-point week
One or two might be tempted to think Pompey have cracked the 'staying up' code after two wins in a week - including their first on the road for four months.
Will Mousinho mix it up at Sheffield United - and will it result in any Pompey mix-ups?
Rob Atkinson, Isaac Hayden, Thomas Waddingham, Hayden Matthews, Cohen Bramall, Adil Aouchiche, Ben Killip and Kaide Gordon. Eight transfer window arrivals that John Mousinho says have given Ponpey a 'good mixture' in their squad.
Returning Pompey defender aims to be a regular again
Conor Shaughnessy's return to Pompey's team was one of the few bright spots on a night to forget as the Blues lost to Millwall.
I expect much more of them: Mousinho unhappy with Pompey's Hawthorns effort
John Mousinho said there were no excuses for Pompey folding so badly at West Brom.
Pompey have to keep home fires burning after awayday woes
Pompey have put in plenty of miles in recent weeks - with no reward from any of their road trips - and the manager, players and fans will be delighted to see the next run of five games include four at home.
Chalk and cheese - Mousinho hails Pompey's improved away showing at Sunderland
John Mousinho said he saw plenty to be encouraged about despite Pompey losing 1-0 at Sunderland.
Portsmouth 4 - 0 Swansea City - Player Ratings and Reports
If you saw the match, please give us your player ratings and a mini match report.