Portsmouth have endured a miserable close season, with their
tour of the United States blighted by all manner of problems, and
the extent of the challenge facing Pompey when the season kicks off
in 11 days time is only too apparent on the club's official
website.
The club's first team squad page lists just 14 players, several
of whom are expected to leave Fratton Park before the close of the
transfer window, and no goalkeepers.
Tal Ben Haim, John Utaka and Kevin-Prince Boateng are among
those expected to depart, leaving the club desperately short of
players before they start their Championship campaign at Coventry a
week on Saturday. Jamie Ashdown, who was released by the club in
June, is currently back at the club on trial, and could come in to
solve the goalkeeping crisis, with David James on his way out. Liam
O'Brien, an 18-year-old academy keeper, could be the sole
back-up.
Portsmouth ended their US tour with a 4-0 drubbing at the hands
of DC United, a result that the manager Steve Cotterill felt
highlighted their situation.
"The one thing about this result is that it's shown the position
we're in. It's painful. We've got some good honest senior lads here
and some youngsters who are trying their hardest," said Cotterill.
"The kids have got to be at full tilt to be anywhere near the team,
and we're going to be playing in a man's league in a couple of
weeks' time."
Bookmakers have installed Portsmouth as third-favourites for
relegation behind Scunthorpe and Barnsley.
