Roberts moving towards Pompey exit

Gary Roberts' Pompey career appears to be over.

Roberts and striker Michael Smith have both been deemed surplus to requirements at Fratton Park.

Gary Robertsplaceholder image
Gary Roberts

And Blues boss Kenny Jackett revealed there has been interest shown in both players as he reshapes his squad ahead of the new campaign.

The duo were left out of the Blues squad for today’s 2-1 defeat to Bournemouth, despite being fit.

Michael Smith spent a spell on loan at Northampton last season Picture: Sharon Luceyplaceholder image
Michael Smith spent a spell on loan at Northampton last season Picture: Sharon Lucey

Carl Baker’s Pompey future also remains the subject of speculation, with talk of interest from Coventry continuing.

Both Roberts and Smith have a year left on their agreements, but look to be out of the first-team reckoning.

Jackett said: ‘Gary is fully fit and has been this week, as has Michael Smith. They haven’t been selected.

‘There are a high number of players in the squad.

Michael Smith spent a spell on loan at Northampton last season Picture: Sharon Luceyplaceholder image
Michael Smith spent a spell on loan at Northampton last season Picture: Sharon Lucey

‘If you are looking at the front four positions, in whatever formation you want to play, there are 10 players for four positions in whatever system you play. That’s too many.

‘We’ve not necessarily spoken about it directly (Roberts leaving).

‘But, for Gary anyway and Michael Smith, the situation is they haven’t been selected. That’s purely on what I’ve seen so far.

‘I’ve had several calls about both, but nothing that is imminent or realistic.’

News you can trust since 1877
Follow us
© 2026 Iconic Media Group Ltd. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice