“Simply cannot afford” – Portsmouth boss John Mousinho backed over Newcastle United transfer decision.
This article is part of Football League World’s ‘Terrace Talk’ series, which features personal opinions from FLW Fan Pundits on breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings, and more.
Isaac Hayden’s brief but eventful spell at Portsmouth appears to be over, as the Newcastle United loanee has confirmed he will not be returning to Fratton Park next season.
Hayden was signed in January to add much-needed experience to a midfield plagued by injuries and inconsistency. He arrived with a strong CV and top-flight pedigree.
Despite not being a consistent starter for Pompey, his late-season contribution helped the team secure safety with two games remaining.
Isaac Hayden’s departure marks a shift towards the more youthful Portsmouth side.
“We were having injuries all over the pitch, we couldn’t really find a balance, we kept having players forced out of the 11, and Hayden, although he admittedly got off to a mediocre start in life given he didn’t get a starting 11 spot right away – because Dozzell and Potts were performing so well.
“I believe that as time passed and he became more integrated into the team, he definitely settled in, and I believe that in the latter stages of the season, he played some of his best games for us, especially since he was given more offensive opportunities.
“At first, he played more of a number six protective role, focussing on his defensive duties, but as he grew into the side, he gained more freedom to go forward and create.
“I recall his performance against Norwich (5-3 away win), which I thought was his best game for us. He had some really decent outings, especially towards the end of the campaign.
“I believe, however, that this is the correct decision and somewhat expected; we will all remember Hayden fondly for what he did, but I’m sure there won’t be many people who are disappointed or bitter that he will not be returning.
“He came to the club at a difficult time, he did his job, and he’s leaving with everyone’s best wishes, and I believe everyone understands the direction the club wants to take, as Hayden himself stated with more younger players.
“Also, Hayden is on a really, really high wage at Newcastle, I believe it’s around £50,000 per week – money we simply cannot afford to pay – and I’m sure he’ll even want to run his contract down if Newcastle doesn’t pay him.
“I wish Hayden all the best. His heartfelt goodbye message on social media after the Hull game was really good. I wish him nothing but the best and thank him for what he did for us.”
“But I think at the end of the day, it’s one of those we will remember looking back on Hayden’s time as a player – he came in during a difficult situation, did his job, and left with everyone’s best wishes.”
Isaac Hayden leaves Portsmouth on good terms, as the club looks ahead.
Hayden’s departure is a natural progression for both the club and the player.
For Portsmouth, it’s a chance to reshape the squad around younger, more energetic talent and maintain the upward momentum from the end of the Championship season.
| Isaac Hayden at Portsmouth (via FotMob) | |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 17 |
| Goals | 0 |
| Assists | 0 |
| Tackles won | 61.3% |
| Duels won | 50.9% |
| Pass accuracy | 76% |
| Chances created | 2 |
Hayden’s primary goal will be to find a new home where he can play regular football and take on a larger role.
Despite limited appearances, the midfielder’s professionalism and late-season performances earned him the respect of Portsmouth fans.
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