3 Rob Atkinson alternatives Portsmouth must consider amid Bristol City boss’ transfer admission….
Portsmouth saw Rob Atkinson enjoy a fine loan at Fratton Park over the second half of the season, but hopes of a return have been dented..
Portsmouth had an almost constant centre-back shortage over the course of the 2024/25 campaign. Pompey had to recruit several new defenders, including free agent Alexander Milosevic out of the transfer window.
Among the others signed was Rob Atkinson, who arrived from Bristol City until the end of the season. There were reservations initially considering he had only just come off the back of a lengthy absence of his own.
Pompey – Portsmouth loan man Rob Atkinson
Image courtesy of: MATTHEW CHILDS/REUTERS.
However, Atkinson quickly endeared himself to the Fratton Park faithful with some eye-catching performances. As a result, fans and manager John Mousinho alike have shown an interest in bringing him back.
Liam Manning, manager of Atkinson’s parent club however, has indicated he will be part of their plans next season.
It means Portsmouth may have to consider other options in their new defender hunt. Here, we put forward three other centre-backs for Pompey to consider…
Sean McLoughlin – Hull City
McLoughlin was a regular at centre-back and left-back for Hull City in the 2024/25 campaign with his deal up in 2026 and more uncertainty brewing at the club, options elsewhere could prove tempting.
The Irishman could be a good alternative to Atkinson for Portsmouth as he is another defender proven to be a solid option at the level with decent experience behind him. The 28-year-old has 146 appearances for Hull to his name 126 of which have been in the Championship.
McLoughlin could be a shrewd target for Pompey if the door opens for him to leave Hull.
portsmouth, 3 Rob Atkinson alternatives Portsmouth must consider amid Bristol City boss’ transfer admission
Image courtesy of: ED SYKES/REUTERS.
Akin Famewo – Sheffield Wednesday
Sheffield Wednesday have offered left-sided centre-back Akin Famewo a new contract but if it goes unsigned, he could be a fine option for Championship clubs this summer.
Portsmouth could be a good move for him too. While perhaps capable of playing for a side with a more solidified second tier presence, he could be a real key player for Pompey and a popular figure in their defence.
Famewo is perhaps at his best in a back three but has found plenty of success in a back two as well. He can also cover at left-back if required.
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Calvin Brackelmann – SC Paderborn
Last but not least is an overseas option in the form of Calvin Brackelmann, who plays his football in the second tier of German football for SC Paderborn.
The 25-year-old is a towering presence at the back. His stock has risen thanks to an impressive 2024/25 campaign and after time as a left-back, his 196cm stature has made him a hit at centre-back.
The physicality he possesses could make well suited to the Championship and with his deal up in 2026, Brackelmann could be a very shrewd addition for Portsmouth.
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