It mean’s 13 players will have now departed the club since their final day of the season draw against Wycombe less than a week ago, with this term’s five loanees now back with their respective parent clubs.
Left behind are 17 contracted players – including Toby Steward, Haji Mnoga and Liam Vincent – who form the basis of Pompey’s squad ahead of another summer of recruitment.
That represents good foundations on which to build and shows the Blues are in a better position today than they have been in previous years retained lists have been released.
It could still be enhanced, too, with Pompey still in talks with Jay Mingi and Ronan Curtis about their futures. However, that figure could easily go down as well, with the Blues open to offers for both Denver Hume and Reeco Hackett. There’s speculation, too, that Colby Bishop couid attract interest.
It will be interesting to see how the first-team squad takes shape once the transfer window reopens on June 10 and what twists and turns lie ahead.
In the meantime, though, we’ve taken a look at what Pompey’s strongest XI would be now based on those players who remain at Fratton Park and whether that provides an insight into what to expect on the recruitment front going forward.
9. Midfield 3 - Tom Lowery
It's fair to say that the Fratton faithful didn't see as much as the 2022 summer signings as they would have liked this season following a campaign hindered by injury. The same can be said for the player's goals and assists record, with no goals and just two assists to show from his 21 games in all competitions. Despite this, Lowery has plenty of admirers at PO4 and it's hoped a full pre-season with the club will benefit both him and the club massively. Photo: Jason Brown
10. Right-wing - Reeco Hackett
In fairness, Hackett only occupies the right-flank given Owen Dale's departure and the lack of alternatives. Some might suggest youngster Koby Mottoh would be a better option, but we need to be realistic given his age and experience. There's a good chance Hackett will leave Fratton Park this summer after another season that has seen him fail to establish himself as a regular. The recruitment of a first-team starter and sufficient back-up in this key position will be essential in the summer. Photo: Simon Davies
11. Centre-forward - Colby Bishop
The presence of Pompey's 24-goal top-scorer up top emphasis just how strong the spine of the Blues' team is - irrespective of recent departures. However, Pompey need to add to this key departure so that they don't become dependant on Bishop for goals. Greater competition is also a must going forward, with Dane Scarlett and Joe Pigott not providing enough of this during the past season. The need to recruit well here is also essential with talk that Bishop might generate significant interest from elsewhere in the summer. Photo: Jason Brown
12. Left-wing - Paddy Lane
The Northern Ireland international finished off the season with his first goal for the club against Wycombe. He's been slowly but surely adjusting to life at Fratton Park - and more will be expected of the 22-year-old with a good pre-season under his belt. Pompey, however, can't go into the new season with must Lane operating down the left flank. The departure of Michael Jacobs, plus Ronan Curtis' situation, means new faces are needed here - and fast. Photo: Jason Brown