The Exodus Begins

Last updated : 07 January 2013 By Jim Bonner

Jon Harley's contract will not be renewed when it expires on January 15th. Therefore he will bid Fratton Park a farewell after Pompey's next home game with former club Notts County.

Harley may not be the greatest footballer in the world but at least he can leave Portsmouth with his head held high as one of the few players who gave everything during their time at the club.

His attitude was top notch and in all honesty he probably could have done a good job for Pompey in League Two next season. It's a shame to see someone who cares and has his level of professionalism to go.

Expect more departures during the week too. The local news believes that Brian Howard, Lee Williamson and Mustapha Dumbuya are also set to leave to cut costs because they are the highest earners at the club.

Scott Allan has returned to West Brom and it's unlikely his loan will be renewed and Gabor Gyepes isn't likely to play for Pompey again after he admitted he needs more stability for himself and his family not so long ago.

January isn't all about departures, however. Do you remember a youngster by the name of James Keene being on Pompey's books some years ago?

He made two appearances for the club as a 19-year-old at the end of the 2004/2005 season (that's the one where Pompey fans celebrated at West Brom when Southampton were relegated - yes, it's that far back now!)

Now 27, Keene is surplus to requirements at Swedish club Elfsborg having been loaned out in the last two seasons and is now a target for Guy Whittingham as he looks to broaden his options up front.

Marko Futacs was another target for Whittingham but the move broke down, surprise surprise, due to a disagreement on wages.

It should be a busy month. Will Pompey even have a squad at the end of it?