Portsmouth's lack of transfer activity is worrying and has left squad weakened

And, as a result of a lack of new faces arriving at Fratton Park, the squad is now weaker than the group which failed to get promotion last season.

That’s the verdict of chief sports writer Neil Allen in the latest episode of Pompey Talk, which you can download HERE.

Allen is concerned by the lack of recruitment taking place, with Sean Raggett the only permanent signing after his loan stay last season.

He said: ‘In fairness, Pompey are restricted, but they have not brought in a single new first-team player since January 7.

‘And if you want to go further back, they haven’t signed permanently a single new first-team player since John Marquis on July 31.

‘I know Sean Raggett has arrived but he’s not new - we know what he can do.

‘We know he’s a very good player who played 38 games last season and has signed permanently. But that’s not a new player - that’s not a new face.

‘He’s signed for Pompey to stay where they are, but Pompey need to strengthen and move forward.

‘As a result of Pompey not signing any players they are worse squad than they were at the play-offs.

‘I’m sorry but I can’t see how you can put a positive spin over the fact they haven’t signed any players. It’s worrying - that’s what it is.

‘I know they’ve got time and this and that, but they haven’t signed any players - and for a club like Pompey who are keen to get promotion that’s worrying.’

Cameron McGeehan was the last man brought in 229 days ago and Allen knows that is a source of consternation among supporters.

But he also outlined his belief that will be echoed in the Pompey dressing room, with players determined to reach the Championship

He added: ‘The fact is - and it’s a fact - Pompey have not brought a single new face to Fratton Park since Cameron McGeehan on January 7. No one.

‘I know people will say that’s negative and don’t help the club, but it’s the truth.

‘That situation doesn’t only frustrate supporters because it doesn’t give you too much hope going into the new season, but players as well.

‘Players want to see squads strengthened and new faces come in the door.

‘They want to be lifted. We all want to be lifted.’

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