Stockport County have completed the signing of midfielder Owen Moxon from Portsmouth on a permanent deal, bringing an end to his one-year spell at Fratton Park.
The 27-year-old struggled for consistent game time this season, and with first-team opportunities limited, Pompey boss John Mousinho sanctioned the move, wishing Moxon well in a parting statement.
Stockport Finally Land Long-Term Target
Stockport manager Dave Challinor revealed that Moxon had been on the club’s radar for the last three seasons, but logistical challenges had prevented a deal until now. The former Carlisle United man now joins a side that is sitting fourth in League One and firmly in the promotion race.
“Owen is a player who has been spoken about across the three years I’ve been at the club, and circumstances have meant that bringing him in has never worked logistically,” Challinor told Stockport’s official website.
“To be able to add him to our squad on a permanent basis from Portsmouth is great for us, and we feel we are adding an all-round midfielder that can play in a deeper role, has a great range of passing, outstanding set-piece delivery, and can chip in with goals.”
Struggles for Game Time at Pompey
Moxon joined Portsmouth last February on a three-and-a-half-year deal from Carlisle United. His first season saw him play a role in Pompey’s League One title-winning campaign, making 15 appearances and scoring once in a 2-2 draw with Derby County.
However, competition for places this season made it difficult for him to cement a regular spot in Mousinho’s starting XI. With West Ham loanee Freddie Potts and Andre Dozzell preferred in midfield, and Isaac Hayden arriving in January, Moxon’s game time diminished. His last appearance came in the FA Cup defeat to Wycombe Wanderers, after which he was an unused substitute for five of Pompey’s last six matches.
Championship Ambitions Align
Moxon has signed a three-and-a-half-year deal at Edgeley Park, with Stockport hoping he can be a key figure in their push for Championship football.
“To have Owen, not just in the short term but beyond that, is really exciting and we feel he can grow with us,” Challinor added.
“His motivation, as ours is, is to get back to the Championship as soon as possible.”
Writer’s View
Stockport’s persistence in tracking Moxon has finally paid off, and his arrival could be a key addition in their promotion charge. While he struggled for game time at Portsmouth, his qualities as a composed midfielder with set-piece ability could make him a valuable asset for the Hatters. If he can rediscover his form from his Carlisle days, this could be a shrewd piece of business for Stockport.
