First Impressions

Last updated : 06 September 2012 By Jim Bonner

t’s only just begun, but what of Pompey’s new faces so far? Neville Dalton, a Pompey fan of 45 years, gives his initial verdict.

Reality of life in the third tier is already hitting home as Pompey struggle in the lower reaches after these first few weeks of the season.

There are plenty of mitigating factors – not least the lack of money, delays in being allowed to sign any players, and the constant uncertainty at Fratton Park.

It is clear Pompey are not going to take League One by storm, and with the prospect of a 10-point deduction, it is going to be a tough fight just to stay in the division.

But how are those players whom Michael Appleton has brought to the club shaping up?

For the benefit particularly of those who have not yet had the chance to see them in action, I offer my very early views.

They may or may not tally with what other fans are saying, but are my honestly held assessment of these early days at Fratton Park.

No-one’s Pompey future should be judged on just a couple of games, but who is starting to show their worth, and who is struggling to make an impact?

Mikkel Andersen Has made some smart saves, but has not yet inspired confidence.

Verdict: What’s Eastwood like?

Mustapha Dumbuya Love his positive approach. Lively, but not always in control of the ball. 

Verdict: Can surely only get better.

Paul Connolly Going to take some time to settle, and to find his feet in the centre rather than at full-back, but seems wholehearted.

Verdict: Handy squad player.

Kevin Long Just what we need – a no-nonsense centre-back who can play a bit. Liable to a booking or two, and I fear the penalty count might soar.

Verdict: A class addition. Captain material.

Jon Harley Thought he looked composed on his debut., but has made a few key mistakes since. Would like to see him pushed by competition.

Verdict: Too comfortable for him at the moment.

Jack Compton Looked amazing for the first half-hour of his debut against Bournemouth. Had lost half a yard of pace by the Oldham game.

Verdict: Definite asset if he can maintain his pace and build up his stamina.

Brian Howard A mature head driving midfield, but so far has made as many mistakes as good things – and is impetuous in the tackle.

Verdict: Definitely not undroppable.

Lee Williamson Clearly not fit on his debut and has been injured since. May be the calming influence we need in midfield, though.

Verdict: Possesses the kind of maturity Pompey are going to need at this level.

Izale McLeod Never convinced me in the Bournemouth game (his goal was a gift) and his lack of composure in his one-on-one with the Bournemouth goalkeeper later in the match disappointed me, given his goalscoring reputation. Nothing against Oldham persuaded me to change my mind.

Verdict: Might benefit from the kick up the pants that dropping him should achieve.

Luke Rodgers Got better and better against Bournemouth. Always looks like scoring, and I like his intelligent and positive approach.

Verdict: Should be our first-choice striker. Another David Kemp or Alan Biley?

Conor Clifford Not sure his neat, one-touch game is suited to this league, though it is the way Michael Appleton likes the game to be played.

Verdict: Hope he manages to begin fulfilling his promise while with Pompey.

Kieran Djilali Actually impressed me very much during that blistering opening first half against Bournemouth. But Michael Appleton clearly saw shortcomings that persuaded him to look elsewhere.

Verdict: Has been released.

Johnny Ertl Very shaky debut, but he needs time to integrate into this new set-up.

Verdict: Too early to judge.

 ordan Obita Scored against Colchester, but from the time his opening one-on-one against Oldham went the same way as McLeod’s against Bournemouth, his Pompey stock began to plummet. Didn’t challenge for one header, should have been booked for diving and was sent off after succumbing to Paul Dickov’s wind-up tactics.

Verdict: Shameful start.

Darel Russell Was shaken up by Oldham’s bulldozer tactics, but needs a chance to prove his fitness. 

Verdict: Could prove a valuable option in midfield.

Liam Walker Has impressed fans already. Shaky start against Oldham, but grew in composure and effectiveness. 

Verdict: Doesn’t look like a winger. Would like to see him in a more central role, perhaps playing off Luke Rodgers or dictating play from the middle.

Ashley Harris Has looked influential every time he has played, taking the game to opponents without fear.

Verdict: May not be the finished article, but certainly deserves a run of starts.

Adam Webster Showed last season at a higher level that he has the ability and temperament to make it. Has not looked out of place in the few minutes he has been on the field this season.

Verdict: Valuable squad player learning the game, but may well get plenty of chances.