So when we asked The News readers on Facebook to name the player who first made them fall in love with Pompey – and who they believe is the club’s greatest of all time – the response was nothing short of phenomenal.
Hundreds of you piled in, filling the comments with memories, friendly arguments and more than a few heartfelt tributes. What followed was a roll call of Fratton Park royalty.
Here are a few of the comments readers made:
Brett Holdaway: “The Prosmeister. Played for Barca and Real. And us. Looked like Zidane with a cigar on. And we nearly went down that season!”
Rob Ellis: “Jimmy Dickinson. An international centre half, never even spoken to by a referee never mind booked.”
Mark Woolley: “For me it would have to be Paul Walsh. He was brilliant for us. Says something that he won player of the season ahead of Guy Whittingham who scored 49 goals that season.”
Mel Clarke: “Merson was a huge impact on the team, definitely one of the best players to don the Pompey shirt .”
Let’s meet the legends you chose ...
5. Guy Whittingham
Guy Whittingham is one of Portsmouth’s most prolific forwards, best remembered for his remarkable 42-goal season in 1992–93. His scoring instinct made him a fans' favourite and cemented his place in club history. Whittingham later returned in coaching and caretaker managerial roles, further deepening his long association with Pompey. In 226 appearances for Pompey he scored 115 goals. | Getty Images
6. Paul Walsh
Paul Walsh, pictured here with Guy Whittingham, joined Portsmouth in the early 1990s and quickly became a key attacking presence with his sharp movement and intelligence. He played an important role in the 1992 FA Cup run, where Pompey narrowly missed out on a Wembley final. Walsh’s flair and tenacity - along with his 26 goals in 113 appearances - ensured he remained a popular figure among fans. | Getty Images
7. Mark Hateley
Striker Mark Hateley made a big impact during his time at Portsmouth in the early 1980s, showcasing athleticism and aerial dominance. His 22-goal haul in the 1983–84 season helped raise his profile and led to a move to AC Milan. Hateley’s development at Pompey set the stage for a distinguished career across Europe. | Getty Images
8. Alan Knight
Goalkeeper Alan Knight is one of Portsmouth’s greatest icons, spending more than 20 years at the club and amassing over 800 appearances. Known simply as 'The Legend', he served as Pompey’s loyal and dependable goalkeeper through multiple eras and divisions. His reliability, consistency and long-term commitment make him perhaps the greatest servant in the club’s history. | Getty Images