Portsmouth have secured the signature of seasoned midfielder John Swift on a two-year contract as the 30-year-old returns to his hometown club where he began his career in the academy.
The Portsmouth-born player departed The Hawthorns following the conclusion of last season after accumulating over 100 appearances for West Brom since his 2022 arrival.
Blues manager John Mousinho expressed his satisfaction with the acquisition, highlighting Swift’s extensive Championship credentials and leadership qualities both on and off the field. “John is a player with bags of Championship experience and is a real leader – both on and off the pitch,” Mousinho stated.
The gaffer emphasised Swift’s suitability for the squad’s requirements as Portsmouth aim to consolidate their position following a successful return to Championship football. “He possesses all the qualities we were looking for in a midfielder, as the club look to build on what was a positive first campaign back at this level,” Mousinho added.
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Mousinho welcomed the early completion of the deal during pre-season preparations, noting his anticipation for working with Swift ahead of next month’s first competitive fixture.
Swift’s career trajectory saw him leave Fratton Park a decade ago for Chelsea, where he claimed the FA Youth Cup and earned a professional contract with the Premier League side. His sole senior appearance for the Blues came as a substitute in their May 2014 Premier League triumph over Cardiff.
The former England under-21 international subsequently gained valuable experience through loan spells at Rotherham, Swindon, and Brentford before securing a permanent move to Reading. During his six-year tenure with the Royals, Swift netted 33 goals across 202 appearances before his West Brom switch three years ago.
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