One club, six goalkeepers ensures Portsmouth are in good hands

Kenny Jackett’s desire to add promising Taylor Seymour to his ranks further strengthens a position already well-stocked – both in terms of talent and numbers.

The 18-year-old, who has made two appearances for Lewes’ first-team this season, is earmarked for Academy and reserve duty with the Blues next term.

Certainly goalkeeping coach John Keeley has his hands full, with Seymour’s anticipated signing leaving six keepers on Pompey’s books.

While Alex Bass and Craig MacGillivray battle for the number-one spot, Luke McGee is officially on loan at Bradford, while American Duncan Turnbull joined shortly before football’s suspension.

Finally, Academy second-year keeper Leon Pitman broke a wrist earlier this season. He is now expected to be given a three-month contract next term.

Let’s not forget, Petar Durin departed in February in a mutually-agreed exit. The youngster was struggling to settle on the south coast and keen to return to his native Croatia.

Presently, there are plenty of options for the Blues who, nonetheless, must be heartened by the pool of goalkeeping talent at their disposal.

Naturally, their numbers will be reduced, with McGee set for a Fratton Park departure upon the expiry of his contract this summer.

The former Spurs man was Jackett’s first choice during his maiden season as manager in 2017-18, amassing 50 appearances.

However, following MacGillivray’s arrival and the confident emergence of Bass, McGee has made just five first-team squads since mid-December 2018.

Unfortunately, his loan spell at Bradford has also suffered setbacks, making way for fit-again regular keeper Richard O’Donnell after four appearances.

Pompey paid an undisclosed sum for McGee’s services in July 2017, yet will soon lose him for nothing as he seeks first-team opportunities elsewhere.

Academy graduate Leon Pitman’s future is not as definitive, with the talented youngster to be given the chance to show he is over his injury. What happens beyond that remains to be seen.

While Bass and MacGillivray are the undisputed first-team keepers and highly regarded, Turnbull is viewed as third choice.

The 22-year-old from Illinois, whose granddad is coincidentally a former Fratton Park season-ticket holder, impressed on trial since the turn of the year.

He is now contracted until the summer of 2021, while has been identified as the club’s reserve keeper, particularly should plans for a second-string team come to fruition.

It ensures Seymour will join Bass, MacGillivray and Turnbull as the options next season.

In reality, one club, four goalkeepers.

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