Portsmouth close to appointing head of performance with Premier League experience

Portsmouth are finalising a newly-created head of performance position at Fratton Park, according to The News Portsmouth FC. The role has been designed to address recurring injury problems that have affected the club in recent seasons. The candidate being pursued is understood to possess Premier League experience and is currently employed elsewhere, with notice required before the appointment can be completed.

Chairman Michael Eisner has championed the position, having grown frustrated by the frequency of injuries within the squad. Eisner first publicly outlined plans for the appointment during an interview with The News in August. Manager John Mousinho and sporting director Rich Hughes have since reinforced the club's commitment to the role, viewing it as essential to improving player fitness and availability.

The head of performance will report to Hughes and oversee both the medical and sports science and conditioning departments, though the precise job title remains under consideration. The appointment follows Portsmouth's recent recruitment of Joe Morrell as first-team development coach, a position that had been vacant for some time. Morrell was selected following his success as part of a League One title-winning setup.

Eisner has previously emphasised the strategic importance of the role to The News, stating that performance and medical considerations represent a major focus area for the club. He outlined plans to investigate global best practices and utilise technology including motion photography to identify potential problems before they develop into injuries.