Midfielder Joe Morrell heading back to Portsmouth following stint at Bristol City

Former Portsmouth midfielder Joe Morrell is set to return to Fratton Park to join John Mousinho’s coaching staff, according to BBC Solent. The 29-year-old will take over as the club's first-team development coach, filling the vacancy left by Zesh Rehman's departure in December 2025. Morrell is expected to be in place ahead of Portsmouth's upcoming derby clash against Southampton.

The appointment marks a reversal for Morrell, who previously turned down a first-team coaching role with Pompey to gain academy experience at Bristol City. After retiring from playing in October 2025 due to a severe knee injury sustained in January 2024, Morrell served as Bristol City’s under-21 interim boss before departing in July.