Portsmouth’s manager is thrilled that Josh Murphy, a former Leicester and West Brom target, has committed to a new Fratton Park contract.
Josh Murphy signed a new long-term contract with Fratton Park, committing to the team for the future. And despite unwelcome transfer interest in the 30-year-old late in the transfer window, John Mousinho has praised the “importance” of keeping Pompey’s greatest players.
Murphy joined the Blues on a free transfer from Oxford United in June 2024, with two years left on his contract. However, Pompey acted quickly to acquire their star player after an incredible debut season and an approach from Leicester City in the closing days of the transfer window. He has extended his initial contract by an additional 12 months by signing a new one that will keep him until the summer of 2028.
“It is really important to secure Josh for longer – he thoroughly deserves a new deal,” Pompey’s head coach told The News, adding that Mousinho is happy to extend the stay of the former Norwich and Cardiff player who has been a revelation during his time on the south coast thus far. “You never know, contracts are contracts, it doesn’t necessarily stop any club from potentially being interested, but it’s a real sign of commitment from Josh and sign of commitment from the football club as well.”
“He wants to stay, and hopefully it will be a few more years after that,” I said. He is currently in great form and might possibly wish to complete his career here. Taking the injury out of the equation, Josh played a lot of games last season and still looks incredibly strong and fit, with plenty of miles remaining in his tank. Therefore, I believe it’s a really good move for the player and the team.
In an effort to keep a player who, in his rookie season, contributed 21 goals and won multiple player of the season awards, Pompey has acknowledged that Championship rivals Leicester expressed interest in Murphy at the end of August but were passed over. The Blues maintain that they never considered a potential departure. Unfortunately, Murphy has missed the last three games due to an ankle injury and is still doubtful for Saturday’s match against league leaders Middlesbrough.
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