Lawrence is leaving…and taking Kitson too

It is being reported that Liam Lawrence and Dave Kitson are both in talks with Portsmouth over a possible move, which would as part of a deal which would see highly rated midfielder Marc Wilson move to Stoke.

Wilson was one of the only players to shine for Portsmouth during their traumatic campaign last year, and would be a welcome addition. The Republic of Ireland international can play in both central midfield and central defence, but with Stoke being considerably light in central midfield its doubtful he will be dislodging either Ryan Shawcross or Abdoulaye Faye from the first team.

But if his expected move materializes then with a heavy heart it will be time to say adios to Liam Lawrence. Lennie has been a great servant to the club and, alongside Ricardo Fuller, he fired us into the Premier League with the club expected to be mid-table at best. After signing permanently in 2007 he had a lot to prove to the supporters but he has since racked up over 100 appearances and is a firm fan favourite.

Also leaving would be Striker Dave Kitson. After becoming Stoke’s record signing two years ago, Dave has never fitted in at the club despite his goal scoring ability. Loan moves to Reading and Middlesbrough along with sitting on the bench have dominated his time here.

So Stoke look set to bring in their third signing of the summer, aswell as getting rid of two players from their huge squad, whereas Portsmouth are gaining two for the price of one to add to their depleted numbers. Wilson gets another crack in the Premier League and Kitson and Lawrence get regular first team football. Everyone’s a winner.