Dan Butler's admission on his Portsmouth departure as he prepares to take on his former club with Peterborough

Dan Butler admitted he never wanted to leave Pompey as he prepares to take on his former club with Peterborough.
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But the Isle of Wight-born ace still regards his spell at the Blues as the best time of his life – and things worked out well for him in the long run.

Butler graduated through the academy at Fratton Park and made 54 appearances in total.

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Despite serving as first-choice left-back during 2014-15, he was released at the end of the campaign after Paul Cook was appointed boss.

Butler dropped into non-league with Torquay then spent three years with Newport before earning a switch to the Posh during the summer.

He’s primed to face Pompey when they head to London Road for a crunch League One promotion clash on Saturday.

And while there’ll be no room for sentiment, Butler still holds fond memories from his time at PO4.

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He told the Peterborough Telegraph: ‘I had the best time of my life at Portsmouth. It was so exciting to join a Premier League club at the age of 10.

Dan Butler battles with Brandon Haunstrup during Peterborough's 2-2 draw at Pompey in December. Picture: Joe PeplerDan Butler battles with Brandon Haunstrup during Peterborough's 2-2 draw at Pompey in December. Picture: Joe Pepler
Dan Butler battles with Brandon Haunstrup during Peterborough's 2-2 draw at Pompey in December. Picture: Joe Pepler

‘Of course at that age you think you will one day play for the club in the Premier League. You don’t know any different then.

‘The reality turned out to be different and by the time I turned professional and played in the first team it was obvious I only managed that because the club had suffered hard times.

‘It was still a great place to play though. Portsmouth fans are incredible no matter what division they are in.

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‘They create a fantastic atmosphere and I loved every minute of my experience with them.

Dan Butler during his Pompey days. Picture: Joe PeplerDan Butler during his Pompey days. Picture: Joe Pepler
Dan Butler during his Pompey days. Picture: Joe Pepler

‘I never really wanted to leave, but in the end I had to and it’s worked out pretty well for me.

‘It’s a big game for both teams this Saturday and I have no doubt Portsmouth will soon be back where they belong no matter what happens in this game.

‘We’ve done really well against the top League One clubs lately so we will go into the game with confidence.’

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