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Portsmouth began their campaign perfectly, as they managed to secure a 1-0 victory over Oxford United at the weekend.
It was the perfect start for John Mousinho and his side as they aim to secure their status as a Championship side once again this season; however, he does have higher ambitions.
In order to achieve this aim, there may be further business done in the transfer market from Portsmouth.
However, that does not just mean incomings; it also means outgoings too, and there is a player who was a favourite of Rafa Benitez who may soon be out the door at Fratton Park, with Reading the expected destination.
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Matt Ritchie to leave Portsmouth
It has been reported by the Portsmouth News that Matt Ritchie will soon be leaving the club, with the expected destination being Reading.
John Mousinho has confirmed that a departure from Portsmouth is likely this window for the 35-year-old.
Speaking to Portsmouth News, he said: “No progress on that so far; Matt is still our player. I have no idea what’s going on at the other end of that.
“I think he will leave this window. You never know; it all depends on how things pan out at whatever club is interested. I am sure there is still plenty of interest in terms of Matt mulling over his options; he will have plenty to think about.
“That’s something which hopefully can happen. If we can get the right place for Matt, then it will be good to see him playing football again.”
Matt Ritchie was a favourite of Rafa Benitez
Matt Ritchie has been a player who has played at the top level of football in England for many seasons while also representing Scotland at the international level.
The 35-year-old featured in the Premier League for both Bournemouth and Newcastle United, becoming a key player for Rafa Benitez at the Magpies.
Benitez spoke positively about Ritchie on a number of occasions, with one example being in April 2017, as he believed that the Scotland international was an example to everyone in his squad due to his work rate and quality.
According to the Chronicle, he said: “The fans here love this kind of player, and as a manager, you can believe in him knowing he will always do his best.
“He’s always so positive and is an example for the others.
“Out of all the players we were talking about [bringing to the club], he was the most clear that he wanted to come here.
“For him Newcastle was a massive club in a massive city, and he was talking about the fans and the stadium – from day one he was very excited about the move.”