Portsmouth sporting director Richard Hughes has admitted there is likely to be interest in head coach John Mousinho this summer.
The 39-year-old has built a solid reputation since taking on the role at Fratton Park in January 2023. Having steadied the ship in his first few months, he followed that by guiding the club to the League One title last season.
Pompey were tipped to struggle upon their return to the Championship and the early stages of the campaign appeared to strengthen those claims. They one just one of their opening 14 matches to move to the bottom of the table but recovered during the second half of the season to finish comfortably in 16th.
Hughes Expecting Interest
Rumours have been circulating over the course of the past week linking Mousinho with the vacant position at West Bromwich Albion. Portsmouth News claimed earlier today that no talks have taken place, although Hughes admits that he is expecting some interest over the course of the close season, although he expects him to remain at the club. Speaking to BBC Radio Solent, he said:
“This club is incredibly special and has got a real unique character around it.
“It’s exciting for me and John. There’s scope to progress and build the club and I know that’s something that really appeals to John.
“I’m sure there absolutely will be interest in John, and rightly so because he’s done a terrific job in the time he’s been with us.
“There’s likely to be people that want to have those conversations but I know John is happy, he loves the area, he loves the team and the project.
“It’s natural in football if people do well there’s likely to be interest but our expectation is to keep moving forward and keep progressing, that way we can keep the group and the staff together, add to the squad and keep making everything stronger, better and keep delivering on the pitch.”
Writer’s View
Mousinho’s name keeps cropping up in the West Brom conversation. They say there’s no smoke without fire and Portsmouth fans will be watching this develop closely. Hughes’ comments are both concerning and reassuring at the same time, but are truthful nonetheless. Still, the head coach has consistently pledged his loyalty to Pompey and it is difficult to see him moving to another club in the Championship at this juncture.
