"It all worked out" - Exclusive: Don Goodman reacts as fresh Portsmouth FC, Newcastle United deal appears dead | OneFootball

With speculation swirling over Hayden’s next move, Football League World caught up with Don Goodman for his exclusive thoughts on the situation

Portsmouth’s summer transfer plans took a fresh twist this week as Isaac Hayden, the experienced Newcastle United midfielder, appeared to close the door on a Fratton Park return after a loan spell.

Hayden arrived at Portsmouth in January with a strong pedigree, having featured in the Premier League and Championship with Newcastle, Hull City, Norwich, and QPR. His arrival was viewed as a coup, bringing much-needed experience to Mousinho’s midfield as the club navigated a tricky campaign.

Hayden’s tally of just 17 appearances underlines the challenge. He struggled to nail down a regular starting spot, and while his leadership was valued off the pitch, his on-field influence was less pronounced.

With speculation swirling over Hayden’s next move, Football League World caught up with Don Goodman for his exclusive thoughts on the situation, and whether Pompey boss John Mousinho should be concerned about him not returning.

Goodman is not convinced Isaac Hayden will be a big miss for Portsmouth

"His experience would have been good for Portsmouth (Isaac Hayden) last season, but he’s 30, and he probably didn’t get the minutes that he would’ve wanted - given that’s what he went there for - to get minutes," Goodman told FLW.

"I think 17 games. So, (a) blow, I’m not so sure because I’m not sure how much of a contribution Isaac made, or maybe he didn’t make as big a contribution on the pitch as he would’ve hoped.

"It all worked out well in the end for Portsmouth, comfortably avoiding relegation and for Isaac Hayden I think he will seek pastures new because he wants to play more than 17 games in a season."

Portsmouth’s successful survival bid owed much to the collective effort of the squad, and while Hayden’s experience was a useful asset, Goodman's words suggest the club are well-placed to cope with his departure.

Mousinho must turn his attention to summer following Hayden's comments

Hayden’s time at Portsmouth may not have delivered the impact many hoped for, but as Goodman states, his departure is unlikely to derail Mousinho’s plans. With the club building on a solid foundation and Hayden seeking a new challenge, both parties look set to move forward holding no grudges.

Attention now turns to how Mousinho will strengthen his midfield. The club’s recruitment in recent windows has been shrewd, and there’s every chance the manager will look to add younger, more dynamic options to his engine room.

For Hayden, meanwhile, the priority is clear: regular football. At 30, he still has plenty to offer, but as Goodman points out, he’ll want to be a key figure wherever he goes next, something that proved elusive on the south coast.