By Jordan Draper
Chelsea’s young central midfielder, Conor Clifford, is set to join Pompey on-loan for the season once the two remaining senior players Liam Lawrence and Tal Ben-Haim leave the club.
Appearing in Pompey’s encouraging 3-0 victory against Bolton at Fratton Park yesterday, Clifford used social media site Twitter to announce his destination for the new campaign.
With Appleton looking at snapping up free signings and trialists once given the green light by the Football League, as well as bringing players in on-loan, Clifford would represent a great acquisition in an area where Pompey appear short of options.
Only trialists Brian Howard, Liam Walker and the soon-to-depart Liam Lawrence are suitable to play in the centre, however Clifford would provide a boost on enthusiasm and energy in a league he is already familiar with.
He spent last season on loan at Yeovil Town and Notts County but endured unsuccessful spells at both clubs, spending most of the time on the bench, which limited him to just 16 games and scoring one goal for Yeovil.
But with his Pompey loan imminent, things would appear positive for the Chelsea youngster who looks to get more first team football under his belt.
Clifford confirmed on Twitter: “For all the people asking, if it was me playing for Portsmouth today then it was. Looking to go on loan for the season when they are sorted.”
“Great match, great atmosphere and won 3-0 against Bolton!”
It appears as if Appleton is keen to form a relationship with Chelsea, having worked alongside current Chelsea manager Roberto Di Matteo at West Brom and Clifford could well be one of a few young prospects poised to join Pompey’s ranks.
Clifford even scored against Pompey’s academy in the youth cup a few years ago, coming up against future team-mate Sam Magri.
I think it will be the best step 4 him.
Posted by Eseyin Adelaja | August 5, 2012, 13:30