First Fratton Park departure confirmed as Portsmouth begin summer clear-out

Pompey’s close-season clear-out has begun, with Duncan Turnbull not expected back at Fratton Park.
By Neil Allen
Published 22nd Apr 2021, 16:19 BST
Updated 22nd Apr 2021, 16:41 BST
Duncan Turnbull's sole Pompey first-team outing was the Papa John's Trophy defeat at Peterborough in January. Picture: Nigel Keene/ProSportsImagesDuncan Turnbull's sole Pompey first-team outing was the Papa John's Trophy defeat at Peterborough in January. Picture: Nigel Keene/ProSportsImages
Duncan Turnbull's sole Pompey first-team outing was the Papa John's Trophy defeat at Peterborough in January. Picture: Nigel Keene/ProSportsImages

Earlier this month, it was announced the goalkeeper had departed on loan for Las Vegas Lights in America’s USL Championship.

That spell includes seeing out the remainder of his Blues deal, which expires in the summer.

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Pompey have the option to extend Turnbull’s contract by another 12 months – but it is understood they will not be activating that clause.

Danny Cowley today admitted he has already said goodbye to the keeper, with the decision over the 22-year-old’s future decided before the head coach’s arrival.

Turnbull, who was signed by Pompey in March 2020 following a trial, made a sole Blues first-team appearance against Peterborough in the Papa John’s Trophy this season.

He is among 11 senior players out of contract – and the first whose future has been made clear.

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Cowley told The News: ‘I think that decision (on Turnbull) was made before we arrived.

‘I spent one day with Duncan – and he said hello and then goodbye.

‘The idea is for him to go on loan (at Las Vegas Lights) and finish out his contract there.

‘I think it was goodbye, that was a decision made before we arrived.’

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Meanwhile, Lewis Ward will continue providing back-up to Craig MacGillivray during his loan from Exeter.

And Alex Bass is making encouraging progress after twice fracturing a leg.

Cowley added: ‘Lewis has been training really well every day.

‘He’s got a great attitude, is a lovely, lovely boy, a really nice kid. He wants to get better, is good with his feet, has a nice left foot and great competition for Craig.

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‘Obviously we also have Bassy, who is on the grass now and on the way back.

‘He’s back in the early parts of his training after a recurring injury, but is now handling, he’s now making saves, he’s now jumping and landing.

‘Bassy’s making good progress.’

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Related topics:Duncan TurnbullDanny CowleyPompeyFratton Park

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