Isaac Hayden’s 2024-25 contribution to Pompey will always be remembered fondly on the south coast, after the ex-Newcastle loanee played his part in helping the Blues maintain their Championship position.
The midfielder made 17 appearances for John Mousinho’s team in the latter half of the campaign, steadying things and ensuring they avoided any relegation danger as Pompey ended the season in 16th spot.
It was very much a job completed, with the 29-year-old heading back to St James’ Park carrying the gratitude of an appreciative Fratton Park crowd.
Sadly, the experienced midfielder has since tarnished those fond memories, and weakened his budding connection with the Pompey support, through remarks made when unveiled as a new QPR player.
On Monday, the Jamaica international sealed a permanent switch to the R’s following his release by Newcastle at the beginning of August.
Arriving on a free, Hayden returned to Loftus Road after spending the final stretch of the 2023-24 season there, featuring in 17 Championship games as well.
But the well-travelled midfielder has made it clear he valued his London stint above his short spell with the south-coast outfit.
Indeed, having confirmed he had options abroad, Hayden declared his time at Loftus Road was special and said it always ‘felt like home’.
He even admitted it felt ‘wrong’ lining up against the Hoops at Fratton Park last February, despite Pompey fighting to stay in the division and requiring complete focus from every squad member.
That day Hayden partnered Andre Dozzell in central midfield for the Blues.
He lasted just over an hour before being substituted for Marlon Pack in the 61st minute, with Pompey 2-0 ahead thanks to strikes from Josh Murphy and Matt Ritchie.
Pompey eventually secured a 2-1 win, as Jimmy Dunne reduced the deficit with 12 minutes left.
Yet at his QPR unveiling, Hayden confessed he struggled in that fixture, owing to his strong attachment to the west London club.
Speaking to QPR’s media team, the midfielder said: ‘I had other options abroad, but in the Championship there was only ever one team, and I’m delighted it’s sorted.
‘ When I was at Portsmouth last year, facing QPR felt strange. It felt like I was playing for the wrong side!
‘Those four months here were really special and sometimes you just know a place feels like home. For me, returning was an easy choice.
‘ I believe I can contribute plenty, both on the pitch and away from it, and help push this squad in the right direction.’
