One in, one out for Pompey

And his right-back role has been taken by ex-Chesterfield man Drew Talbot.

Davies is to leave Fratton Park at the end of this month when his contract expires.

A new deal for the 35-year-old could not be reached, drawing a close to his time on the south coast.

Davies was desperate to remain with Pompey, where he enjoyed an outstanding campaign having arrived as a free agent.

However, an agreement could not be brokered and the energetic full-back is now seeking a new home.

For the Fratton faithful it represents the departure of one of the club’s most popular players.

As a result, many will be sorry to see the ex-Sheffield United man exit in such circumstances.

Yet Paul Cook has moved to replace him by tempting Talbot from League One on a two-year deal.

The 29-year-old made 38 appearances for the Spireites last term as they avoided relegation in a season of transition.

He was also a regular in Cook’s side which won the League Two title in 2013-14.

Converted from a striker to an attacking full-back role, Talbot is a versatile performer who can also play on the left.

He was released from the Proact Stadium last month following 277 appearances and 19 goals.

With Davies’ exit likely, the Blues had lined-up Walsall’s Jason Demetriou to add as right-back.

Yet, following his decision to join Southend, they turned their attention to the energetic Talbot.

On the flip side, it is farewell to Davies, who is in demand and currently in talks with a number of clubs.

Davies was signed only 48 hours before the start of last season, yet established himself at right-back, making 51 appearances.

Naturally a midfielder, he adjusted to the role superbly, weighing in with the third-highest amount of assists.

There was also a goal, arriving via a cross-cum-shot in the 6-0 demolition of York in November 2015.

The trademark swashbuckling surges down the flank from full-back were echoed by Enda Stevens on the other side of the pitch.

And the duo became key performers as Paul Cook’s side reached the semi-finals of the League Two play-offs.

Come the end of the campaign, Davies’ outstanding performances were recognised by six player-of-the-season awards.

Fan groups associated with Central Branch, Chichester, Clan Pompey, Isle of Wight, Stateside Pompey and London all handed over trophies.

Davies also finished runners-up in The News/Sports Mail Player of the Season, close friend Michael Doyle taking the honours.

Now he departs Fratton Park – with Talbot challenged to replace him.