Portsmouth forward announces his Fratton Park departure

The Gosport forward has confirmed he’s not been offered a new deal and his Blues journey has come to an end.

Lethbridge penned third-year scholarship terms at Fratton Park last summer, after two impressive years in the academy.

In total, he’s made three appearances for Kenny Jackett's side and scored in a 2-2 Leasing.com Trophy draw at Oxford United in October.

The 19-year-old spent the majority of the past two campaigns on loan at Bognor, netting 20 times in 71 games.

Various injuries this season have hampered his progress, however, although he’s bagged seven goals in 28 outings for the Rocks.

However, as reported by The News last month, Jackett has opted not to offer Lethbridge a maiden professional deal at Pompey.

And the former Brune Park pupil thanked the Blues for the opportunity to pull on the star and crescent.

Posting on Instagram, Lethbridge wrote: ‘Would like to thank @officialpompey for all the opportunities I was given, it had been a great experience for me and it’s a shame my time come to an end so soon.

‘Now I move on to my next goal. Thank you.’

Meanwhile, fellow third-year scholar Joe Hancott is set to be handed a three-month extension to prove his fitness.

The Isle of Wight left-back has been sidelined since October after suffering anterior cruciate ligament damage to his right knee.

Hancott, who became the youngster debutant Blues history when featuring against Fulham under-21s in August 2017, is also out of contract this summer but is set to be given an extension.

Second-year scholar Leon Pitman is also primed to have his time at the club lengthened by the same period.

The keeper has been on the treatment table since breaking his wrist in training earlier in the campaign.

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