Reborn in the USA... and Canada, too
Pompey have unveiled America and Canada as the destinations for their pre-season tour.
What's more, Andrew Andronikou insists it will not cost the club a penny.
The Blues have been invited to cross the Atlantic to play three matches over two weeks this summer.
It kicks off against MLS side Club America in San Diego, California, on Wednesday, July 14.
Pompey will then cross the border and head into Canada to play in Edmonton, Alberta, on Wednesday, July 21.
The tour will be wrapped up on Saturday, July 24 at a venue still to be finalised.
This will take place either in Portland, Oregon, or in Washington DC.
Nonetheless, it promises to be another jet-setting experience for Blues fans, having followed their team to Hong Kong, Nigeria and Portugal in recent summers.
For Pompey, though, the bill will be footed by their hosts.
It ensures the cash-strapped club will not have to fork out a cent for their two-week stay.
Andronikou said: 'We have been approached by a third party who has been actively trying to find a team to embark on a pre-season tour of America.
'They will be footing the bill. I can assure supporters it won't be costing the club a penny.
'The Americans were keen to bring a UK team across, especially those with Premier League connections.
'Having been in the top-flight for the last seven seasons and also two FA Cup finals, Portsmouth are a respected club and they
are delighted to be welcoming us.
'There are some countries out there that would love to have Liverpool, Manchester United and Chelsea visit, but those sort of clubs will want big bucks.
'We are a rather more affordable option – but still have Premier League links.
'They have been impressed with the way Portsmouth play football and by the passion of the fans, so have jumped at the chance for us to visit.
'The tour will also offer the team the chance to gel over two weeks ahead of what will be an important season in the Championship.'
Pompey are scheduled to head Stateside on Monday, July 12.
That will be 48 hours after facing the Hawks at West Leigh Park on Saturday, July 10.
They will then play Club America at the Qualcom Stadium, San Diego, on July 14.
Club America is a Mexican club which has recently branched into America, following the lead of Chivas.
The next stop is Edmonton on July 21 – Canada's second most populous provincial capital and based in the province of Alberta.
It is also the home of FC Edmonton, who play at Foote Field in the North American Soccer League.
Pompey will actually face an Edmonton Select side.
Finally, it's back into America to either Portland or Washington DC on July 24.
Portland, Oregon, is based in the north-west and referred to as the most environmental city in America.
The Blues are pencilled in to play at the PGE Park against Portland Timbers, who play in the United Soccer League.
However, the fixture could instead take place in Washington DC against DC United at the RFK Stadium.
The exact opposition on the final stop of their tour is currently being finalised.
Meanwhile, the club have confirmed they are looking at hosting Linvoy Primus' testimonial on Saturday, July 31 at Fratton Park against so far unconfirmed opposition.
An August friendly at Gosport is also in the pipeline as the pre-season schedule is finalised.
Pompey already have trips to the Hawks (July 10) and Bournemouth (July 28) booked in.
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Weather for Portsmouth
Thursday 24 May 2012
Today
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