Tony Adams will wait until the end of the season before making a decision on Sol Campbell's future.
The Pompey boss has revealed he will not be rushed into making a snap judgement on his out-of-contract players.
Campbell is one of 15 men whose deal is up at the end of the campaign.
The 34-year-old will be free to speak to other clubs outside of England in January.
Adams will consult Campbell, who is one of the club's top earners, before deciding the way forward.
But he stated he is relaxed about the situation and won't, like any other player, stand in his way if he wants to leave.
Adams said: 'Sol's his own man. He will do what he wants to do, and that's okay with me.
'It's what Sol Campbell wants to do.
'He's been around the block and is a great pro.
'I'm leaving it up to him.
'He's been fantastic for the club, but we'll see.
'I respect his judgement and he'll make the call.
'He's in the best position to tell us what to do.
>>> Deal or no deal - Burton's BanterClick here to read the latest post.'I'm relaxed about it because I respect him.
'I'm not going to decide about the players before the end of the season.
'I've always said I won't get in anybody's way.'
Adams feels it's up to the players whose deals are up next summer to prove they deserve a new offer.
He said: 'There's six or seven months yet. That gives me a chance to have a good look at them.
'I think the players should work hard to get a new contract.
'They all have to want to play for Portsmouth. If someone has a magnificent offer down the road then they can go.
'I'd like to keep a few of them, though. We have some good players.'
