After the Blues’ League One play-off semi-final defeat to Oxford United on penalties, 10 who were previously under permanent contracts moved on to pastures new.
They included the likes of fans’ favourite Christian Burgess, Brett Pitman and Oli Hawkins.
In addition, the loan deals of Cameron McGeehan, Ross McCrorie and Steve Seddon also expired. All three featured in the play-offs.
Meanwhile, Gareth Evans left by mutual consent in September, despite playing in Pompey’s opening three matches of the 2020-21 season.
But how have those who were at PO4 last term started life at their new clubs? We’ve decided to take a look.
. Ryan Williams of Portsmouth, Steve Seddon of Portsmouth and Christian Burgess of Portsmouth celebrate after the Sky Bet League One match between Lincoln City and Portsmouth at Sincil Bank on January 28th 2020 in Lincoln, England. (Photo by Daniel Chesterton/phcimages.com)
Steve Seddon, left, and Christian Burgess both left Pompey in the summer. Picture: Joe Pepler Photo: Daniel Chesterton
. Christian Burgess - Royale Union Saint-Gilloise
The centre-back was the departure that fans mourned the most. Burgess has hit the ground running at Saint-Gilloise. He’s been a mainstay in the team as they sit four points clear at the summit of the Belgium second division table after 12 matches. Photo: Joe Pepler
. Matt Casey - Gosport Borough
It wasn’t a big surprise the defender was released after not making an appearance last term. Despite having a trial lined-up at Yeovil, Casey opted to join Borough. He’s had a couple of injuries but will be desperate to get back playing next week after lockdown ends. Photo: habibur rahman
1. Christian Burgess - Royale Union Saint-Gilloise
The centre-back was the departure that fans mourned the most. Burgess has hit the ground running at Saint-Gilloise. He’s been a mainstay in the team as they sit four points clear at the summit of the Belgium second division table after 12 matches. Photo: Joe Pepler
2. Matt Casey - Gosport Borough
It wasn’t a big surprise the defender was released after not making an appearance last term. Despite having a trial lined-up at Yeovil, Casey opted to join Borough. He’s had a couple of injuries but will be desperate to get back playing next week after lockdown ends. Photo: habibur rahman
3. Gareth Evans - Bradford
The fans’ favourite started Pompey’s opening three games of the season before being told he was surplus to requirements. Evans returned to Bradford and played twice before picking up an injury. Made four appearances in total for the Bantams. Photo: Daniel Chesterton
4. Brandon Haunstrup - Kilmarnock
Plenty of supporters rued the fact that the left-back was allowed to leave his boyhood club to go north of the border. However, Haunstrup’s had a difficult time at Rugby Park so far, making only eight appearances and two starts in the league. He did feature from the outset in Killie’s 3-1 win over Ross County last time out, though Photo: Joe Pepler