Portsmouth midfielder John Swift has admitted he needs to eliminate costly errors to improve his form after a challenging first season at Fratton Park. The 31-year-old, who joined from West Brom last year, acknowledged his struggles in a deeper midfield role, where mistakes led to opposition goals. Portsmouth finished 18th in the Championship with 55 points (14W-13D-19L), narrowly avoiding relegation, and Swift is determined to contribute more effectively next season.

What went wrong for Swift last season?

Swift, a former Chelsea academy graduate, revealed he often tried to impact games too aggressively from a deeper position, leading to turnovers. He admitted, 'I got caught out a few times, playing passes that got us into trouble.' His most impressive performances came in advanced roles, such as the back-to-back wins at Millwall and Charlton in February, where his creativity shone. However, in defensive midfield, his errors became a liability, particularly in a season where Portsmouth conceded 64 goals.

Why Swift’s honesty matters for Portsmouth

Swift’s self-awareness is crucial as Portsmouth prepare for the 2026-27 campaign. The team’s recent form (2W-2D-1L in their last five) suggests momentum, but consistency remains an issue. Swift’s ability to adapt his game—balancing risk-taking with defensive responsibility—could be key. 'If I make a mistake, I want it to be while trying to do the right thing,' he said, emphasizing his commitment to improvement.

What’s next for Swift and Pompey?

With Portsmouth’s next fixture against Aldershot Town (away, 2026-07-15), Swift is focused on refining his role. He thrived as a No. 10 last season, and Mousinho may deploy him there more often. 'I’ve shown I can still open the door and be effective,' Swift noted. As the Blues aim to climb the table, his ability to minimize errors while maximizing creativity will be vital.