Triallist from Horndean aims to win Pompey deal

Olly Long is targeting a professional contract at Pompey.
Olly Long signs his first professional contract at Newcastle UnitedOlly Long signs his first professional contract at Newcastle United
Olly Long signs his first professional contract at Newcastle United

The Horndean talent is currently on trial with the Blues after leaving Newcastle United last month.

Boss Kenny Jackett is casting his eye over Long, 18, this week at the club’s Roko training base.

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The attacking midfielder is a Pompey fan and former season-ticket holder.

He revealed it would be ‘amazing’ to put pen to paper on a deal with his boyhood club.

And he believes he can push for a first-team place.

Long said: ‘It’s a massive club with a huge fanbase. The fans are terrific.

‘I used to go to games with my dad and had a season ticket for years. I know the club inside out, really.

‘I used to travel both home and away supporting them.

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‘All my friends and family are Pompey fans so to play for them would be amazing.

‘I’m a creative midfielder and I like to weigh in with both goals and assists.

‘My priority is to continue developing and improving while enjoying playing football. I want to keep pushing for a place in the first team.

‘I believe I am capable of pushing for a place in a first-team squad if I keep working hard and developing.’

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Long was signed by Southampton at the age of 12 after previously being with the Hawks.

He then moved to Newcastle United four years later.

After signing a pre-contract agreement with the Magpies in 2015, he penned his first professional contract a year later when he turned 17.

However, Long departed St James’ Park last month.

While he was at Newcastle, he kept a close eye on Pompey’s progress.

Long now wants to help continue the Blues’ rise up the football ladder.

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He added: ‘While I was in Newcastle, I obviously kept an eye on how the club has been doing. Being in and involved with a side every day you begin to support them but I’ve always followed Pompey and how they are getting on.

‘I’ve supported the club since a very young age. I know what the fans have been through over the past decade.

‘I want to be part of a group that takes this club back to where it belongs.

‘It’s a Premier League club and the fans have proven that through the years. It’s a classic stadium and a special place to play football.’