Portsmouth man could head out on loan following recent agreement

Portsmouth goalkeeper Toby Steward has been ‘earmarked’ for a new loan after signing a new contract until 2026, according to The News.

Steward, a Portsmouth prospect, spent the 2023/24 season on loan with local non-league side Gosport Borough, hoping to get senior experience away from Fratton Park.

The 19-year-old has been projected for a bright future, so many on the south coast were delighted when he signed a new two-year contract at the beginning of May.

With a season of first-team football under his belt, Steward hopes to progress further throughout the remainder of his contract.

With the summer window just around the corner, the plan for the child has emerged.

According to the News, Portsmouth has ‘earmarked’ Steward for a new loan deal next season. He’s demonstrated his abilities in academy football, and after thriving in his first senior season, a new challenge awaits him.

Steward is likely to go up to a higher level, but it remains to be seen who looks to bring him in when the doors open on Friday.

The best move?

Steward is expected to spend time in first-team training with Portsmouth early this summer, gaining further experience with John Mousinho’s squad and possibly playing some pre-season games.

However, once the season begins, he will greatly benefit from being at another club where he can establish himself as a regular starter, as he did with Gosport Borough.

There would be advantages to him continuing with the Pompey team throughout the season as they go to Championship football, but game time is the priority, and he’ll most likely get it somewhere.

It will be interesting to watch what level Steward advances to after a year at level seven. Perhaps the National League South awaits, and a great performance there could pave the way for a promotion in January.

Mousinho’s goalkeeper options

Portsmouth are expected to be on the market for two new goalkeepers this summer.

Will Norris will remain, and after such a solid performance in their promotion campaign, many expect the 30-year-old to keep his starting berth over whatever comes through the door.

The departures of Matt Macey and Ryan Schofield necessitate the addition of a backup and a third choice, but it will be intriguing to see whether Pompey recruits particularly for those positions or allows the three to compete throughout the summer.

Signings should clear the way for Steward to leave, and the elements of the puzzle should fall into place in due time.