Portsmouth striker Jordy Hiwula: why I was a free agent for three months after Coventry release

Pompey new-boy Jordy Hiwula believes his decision to rebuff interest from rival League One clubs has reaped its rewards.
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The striker penned a short-term deal at Fratton Park until January 20 and bolsters Kenny Jackett's attacking options.

Hiwula had been a free agent for three-and-a-half months before joining the Blues, having been released by Coventry at the end of June.

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The 26-year-old admitted it was mentally tough watching teams report back for pre-season and playing games when he was still training solo.

Hiwula revealed there were clubs in the third tier and League Two who were keen on his signature earlier this summer.

But he chose to turn down those potential suitors as he waited for the right move to come around.

And the ex-Manchester City man feels his patience has paid off.

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‘In the past couple of months, it has been tough seeing teams going back and playing games when you're still training by yourself,’ Hiwula told The News.

Jordy Hiwula. Picture: Morgan Harlow/Getty ImagesJordy Hiwula. Picture: Morgan Harlow/Getty Images
Jordy Hiwula. Picture: Morgan Harlow/Getty Images

‘But it's one of those things where I knew I needed to be ready.

‘It is tough at times training by yourself but you just need to keep reminding yourself that something is going to crop up and need to be ready.

‘For me, Portsmouth is a huge club and it's one of those places I've always wanted to play, so I couldn't say no.

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‘I had interest from a few clubs in this league and from League Two but I knew that I had to wait and see what happens.

‘Luckily, this club came in for me and I am really pleased.

‘I enjoyed my two years at Coventry. It didn't end how I wanted it to playing-wise, but we had to really good seasons and I was happy the club that got promoted.

‘I'm really happy with this move now and want to get things rolling. I feel ready, have been training pretty much since lockdown and feel fit and ready to go.’

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