The Pompey squad that secured the League One title just seven weeks ago has since been broken up.
Meanwhile, with the Blues yet to make known any transfer dealings they’ve been working on ahead of Friday’s official opening of the transfer window, it’s anyone’s guess how the Fratton Park starting XI will look on the opening day of the 2024-25 season on August 10.
That’s still more than eight weeks away, leaving sporting director Rich Hughes and head coach John Mousinho with plenty of time to assemble a squad they feel will be well-equipped to compete in the Championship next season.
With the likes Joe Rafferty, Sean Raggett, Abu Kamara, Tino Anjorin and Matt Macey all leaving the club following the conclusion of the 2023-24 campaign, we all know what areas of the squad need reinforcing more than others.
But what players are taking the pressure off the Blues’ recruitment team this summer? Here are six players who are guaranteed starters for when the season kicks off on August 10.
1. Will Norris
Pompey are on the lookout for a new goalkeeper following the decision to let Matt Macey leave. However, while the new shot-stopper will be tasked to provide Will Norris with healthy competition to give John Mousinho plenty to ponder before handing in his teamsheet each match-day, the former Burnley and Peterborough keeper has the head coach's trust and confidence after an impressive maiden season on the south coast. | National World
2. Conor Shaughnessy
Anyone who claims they could have predicted the former Burton defender's impact at Fratton Park last season are simply lying. No-one really knew the hero Shaughnessy would turn out to be - including John Mousinho - with his last-gasp header against Barnsley to seal promotion the icing on a wonderful maiden season at Fratton Park. Next season should provide extra competition in the former of Tom McIntyre and Regan Poole, who had their injury issues last term. A replacement for Sean Raggett will also increase the battle for a starting place next season. But Shaughnessy is nailed on to be a key cog in the heart of the Pompey defence. You'd be crazy to think otherwise. | Jason Brown/ProSportsImages
3. Connor Ogilvie
There is the small matter of Ogilvie potentially being at another club next season as he remains on course to leave the club on a free transfer upon the expiry of his contract. However, talks continue over a new deal and The News understands there's nothing getting in the way of the left-back continuing his stay at Fratton Park. The defender and quiet man of the dressing room has been known as the Blues' Mr Reliable during his time at the club. That reliability and consistency will be crucial next season - and there's no reason to doubt the former Spurs and Gillingham man's ability to make the step up to the second tier. Additional competition could easily arrive on the horizon to make Ogilvie's job a bit tougher. But healthy competition will bring out the best in him. Photo: Jason Brown
4. Marlon Pack
The Pompey skipper is in the same boat as Connor Ogilvie, with no word yet on an agreement to extend his two-year stay at Fratton Park. It shouldn't be a problem, though, with the 33-year-old expected to resume midfield duties for the Blues next season. A standout player and leader for Pompey during their League One title-winning season, he's sure to be handed a similar remit as the Blues step up to the Championship. His experience of the level and know-how will be key. | Getty Images