Joel Ward will not be making a sentimental return to Portsmouth despite becoming available as a free agent following his departure from Crystal Palace, disappointing supporters hoping for a romantic reunion.
The 35-year-old defender from Emsworth concluded his 13-year stint at Selhurst Park after Palace’s FA Cup triumph, having made 363 appearances predominantly in the Premier League.
No Fratton Park reunion on cards
Ward’s availability has sparked wishful thinking among Portsmouth fans keen to see their former academy graduate return home. The versatile defender originally left Pompey in 2012 when the club sold him to Palace for £2 million to help stave off liquidation threats from administrators PKF.
During his initial Portsmouth spell, Ward made 96 appearances and netted eight goals, including strikes against Southampton, after progressing through the youth ranks.
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Squad depth rules out move
Portsmouth are understood to have no interest in pursuing Ward’s signature this summer, with manager John Mousinho already well-equipped in defensive positions.
The Blues have three contracted right-backs for the 2025-26 season after triggering Zak Swanson’s 12-month extension option, leaving no space for Ward despite his ability to cover multiple positions.
Central defence overcrowded
Mousinho currently has six contracted centre-backs on the books – a number he considers excessive. Players like Ryley Towler and Tom McIntyre may depart this summer, though Portsmouth still hope to add Rob Atkinson to their ranks.
Additional cover exists through Marlon Pack, Connor Ogilvie and Jordan Williams, all of whom featured in central defensive roles during the previous campaign when required.
Left-back positions filled
At left-back, Portsmouth have Ogilvie and Jacob Farrell competing for the position. The club remains optimistic that Farrell has overcome the injury problems that limited the Australian to just one appearance in his debut English season.
Portsmouth’s confidence in their left-back options led them to release Cohen Bramall after his brief spell at Fratton Park.
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Limited game time at Palace
Ward, who reaches 36 in October, featured sparingly during his final Palace campaign with just three appearances, including a start in the concluding home fixture against Wolverhampton Wanderers in a 4-2 victory.
The previous 2023-24 season saw Ward make 23 Premier League starts, and he remained an unused substitute during Palace’s FA Cup final victory over Manchester City in May.
Former Portsmouth youth teammate Matt Ritchie has already established himself at Fratton Park, contributing 41 appearances and five goals while helping the club secure Championship survival with two matches remaining.
Marlon Pack, from the year group below Ward and Ritchie in the academy, also featured 41 times last season, with both players contracted until summer 2026.
