During that period alongside John Mousinho, he has overseen the Blues capturing the League One title and now enjoying successive seasons in the Championship, currently in 14th spot.
With the Hughes era beginning in October 2022, we’ve taken a look at all 43 permanent signings since them - rating each of them.
NOTE: These do not include Pompey’s 16 loan recruits during that time, which will be examined another day.
17. Jack Sparkes - HIT
(43 games, 0 goals) A free transfer from Exeter, the attacking left-back went on to start 27 times in the title-winning season, usually deputising for the long-term injured Connor Ogilvie. For a while, midway through the season, he was one of the Blues' best attacking outlets, particularly from set-pieces, claiming assists. Did his job to get Pompey promoted, but wasn't viewed as good enough for the Championship and was sold to Peterborough in July 2024 - representing a profit. Photo: Jason Brown
18. Alexander Milosevic - ON THE FENCE
(0 games, 0 goals) A short-term recruitment in March 2025 to provide much-needed defensive cover, soon Milosevic himself was injured. The free transfer arrival never made a single appearance, so it's difficult to gauge the success of the signing, especially when it was an emergency in the first place. Photo: Portsmouth FC
19. Ben Stevenson - HIT
(12 games, one goal) Recruited on a free transfer from League Two Forest Green Rovers - where Hughes had previously signed him - the midfielder was always going to be a back-up plan. Somebody to provide competition, but largely cover, and never, ever let the Blues down when called upon. The ideal squad player, although he missed the second half of the promotion season through injury. Left Fratton Park by mutual consent in January and moved to Cambridge United. Photo: Jason Brown
20. Ryan Schofield - MISS
(Six games, 0 goals) The free agent was signed to serve as Will Norris' understudy, yet was so unconvincing he had to be replaced himself by Matt Macey in January 2024. An absolutely shocking goalkeeping display against AFC Wimbledon in the EFL Trophy effectively finished the goalkeeper's Pompey career, there was truly no way back. By all accounts excellent around the dressing room, but on the pitch he was found wanting. Photo: Jason Brown