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‘They need to play’: Frustrated Portsmouth boss prepared to tear up loans for Bradford and Reading pair

The central-defensive duo have made just one League One appearance between them since leaving Fratton Park on loan…

By Neil Allen · Portsmouth News

Published: Monday, 2 November 2026 at 1:00 PM

Key Things to Know

Portsmouth boss John Mousinho is prepared to recall loan defenders Hayden Matthews and Josh Knight in January.
Both players joined their respective League One clubs on season-long loan deals late in the transfer window.
Hayden Matthews has made three cup appearances for Bradford but has yet to make a League One squad.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Portsmouth manager John Mousinho has revealed he is prepared to cancel the season-long loans of Hayden Matthews and Josh Knight in January if their playing time does not increase. The defensive pair have managed only one League One appearance between them since leaving Fratton Park late in the summer transfer window.

Matthews has featured exclusively in cup competitions for Bradford, failing to make a league matchday squad due to the Bantams' strong defensive record. Meanwhile, Knight made his first league start for Reading in Saturday's 0-0 draw against Plymouth after recovering from injury, with Mousinho insisting both players require regular minutes for their development.

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‘They need to play’: Frustrated Portsmouth boss prepared to tear up loans for Bradford and Reading pair

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