‘This transfer window will be the defining moment in Tornante’s ownership’
It’s critical Michael Eisner and Pompey deliver in the upcoming transfer window.
That’s the verdict of The News’ Blues reporter Jordan Cross, who is adamant the summer will play a massive role in Tornante’s future at Fratton Park.
Frustrations were high at PO4 in the final weeks of the campaign as John Mousinho’s men missed out on the League One play-offs.
Eisner recently posted on social media insisting he will deliver this summer in a bid to bolster their promotion push.
And with fans questioning their ownership after six years of failing to reach the Championship, Cross believes this summer will be crucial in their future at Fratton.
On the latest Pompey Q&A, he said: ‘Massive. It’s a critical summer.
‘There looks to be a big opportunity in League One next season.
‘The teams coming down, Wigan and Reading look like they need a bit of sorting out. God knows what’s going to happen with Wigan but it’s the telltale signs – like we well know round these parts – of a club who are in financial dire straits.
‘Blackpool are Blackpool. They’ve got their way of operating and aren’t going to go out and blow it away with their budget.
‘You’re getting the teams leaving the division – Plymouth being the exception – who are the heavy hitters.
‘Derby will be one who will be around still but you can’t have it all! It looks like it’s going to be a weaker division.
‘I think back to 2002 when ITV Digital went bust and Milan Mandaric really went for it that season. He saw an opportunity, spent some money and reaped dividends in quite spectacular fashion.
‘I do believe, from what I know and what I’ve picked up, that there will be a bigger playing budget. From the playing point of view, hopefully they will go for it.
‘The Eisners are on the precipice with fans and there is a vocal element against him. There are a quieter majority who are happy with the steady progress but sticking around in this division for much longer will be a tipping point for a lot of people.
‘It’s massive for the Eisners in so many different facets and for Pompey. And hopefully we won’t be sticking around in League One forever.’