‘Form is temporary. Just doesn’t fit’: Mixed Portsmouth verdict over Ipswich Town loanee's future ahead of summer decision
Conor Chaplin has netted one goal and provided three assists in 29 appearances for Pompey this term.
Conor Chaplin’s Pompey future has been discussed by the Fratton faithful on social media this week.
It’s been a frustrating homecoming for the 29-year-old, who has struggled to eclipse the form seen during his four-year stay at Ipswich Town.
After completing his emotional return on deadline day in September, the forward has netted just one goal and provided three assists in his 29 outings in all competitions to date.
Despite a difficult spell on the right-wing during the first half of the campaign, Chaplin’s displays saw a significant improvement after returning to his more-natural number 10 position.
The Fratton Park academy graduate’s current terms with Ipswich Town comes to a close this summer - although the Tractor Boys do retain an additional 12-month option on his deal.
With 10 games remaining in his loan spell with his boyhood club - as well as a crucial summer at Portman Road - the Fratton faithful have been sharing their thoughts over Chaplin’s future on the south coast.
And it’s a decision which has split supporters on Facebook as they discuss whether John Mousinho’s men should make his stay permanent in the summer transfer window.
Here’s the best of the reaction from X.
Pompey verdict over Conor Chaplin’s Fratton future ahead of Ipswich decision
Richard Price: I actually would because I think he is just off form and confidence. I think if we had him for pre-season and built a team structure and playing style that we largely stuck to he could add to it, if he had a fixed position and style he could be an asset. The problem we have had is he has like everyone had to be put into different positions due to injuries and we've not had the quality to provide anyone attacking wise with any chances. He has talent and I think like others he could come good if played correctly.
Chris Townsend: I don't think he is a player we should look to keep. Glad he came back to have a go but he just doesn’t fit in this set up. He seems to struggle in the system. Wish him all the luck in future though and glad he got his goal.
Dave Sargent: I declared my undying love for Chappers on the pitch after the Cheltenham match. I still have those feelings but he’s been a flop this season sadly. Yes, I’d sign him on a free, form is temporary, class is permanent.
Frank Hoskins: Very rare that returning players, either loan or permanent work out. Fans have this vision of how they were when they departed, but time and age can be a killer.
Grant Till: If he had had Murphy on the wing all season and Pack in the middle and a number 9 getting in the right positions then I think we would of seen the best of him, he’s a free agent in the summer and I personally would sign him up, providing he wants to stay.
Andy Evans: Unfortunately no for me. He seems almost scared to shoot. Still flattering to deceive, same as his time with us when he first came through. He seems to think he can spray the ball around like some sort of Messi/Zidane combination but about 50% of his passes are way off their intended target. There's been a few moments of class and I've thought why couldn't he do that more consistently. Not lived up to the expectations we had when he arrived.
David Smith: No fee and sensible wages then yes… can’t have enough true Pompey lads in our team.
Michael Holman: No way, not good enough.
Kolonel Kasper: Tough one. Love him, want him to succeed, but we need someone big and strong to win balls and play the striker in.
Steve de Grey: Definitely I'd keep him. He is a good player just needs to play his natural game, think confidence is low all round.
Terry Salmon: I am sorry it didn't work out for Chaplin but he has been very poor this season. 1 goal and a lot of mediocre performances, I hope he can recover his form that he displayed when he was playing for Ipswich. I wish him all the best for next season.
Roly Matthews: Been a disappointing season for him I'm sure (has for all of us ). Would I pay money for him? No. Would I take him on a free, knowing we're unlikely to spend much on new players? Probably.
Steve Conroy: If he is on a free and reasonable wages - he could do a job for us …… otherwise no.