Ex-Pompey coach: Adam Webster can reach Premier League

Adam Webster is destined to become an established Premier League performer.
Adam Webster    Picture: Joe PeplerAdam Webster    Picture: Joe Pepler
Adam Webster Picture: Joe Pepler

That is the verdict of Paul Hardyman, the man responsible for bringing the defender to Fratton Park 11 years ago.

Webster will this week join Ipswich in a deal which will see more than £500,000 and Matt Clarke coming to Pompey in return.

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It will be the opportunity for the youngster from West Wittering to play regular Championship football.

Hardyman was Pompey’s assistant youth development officer when he recruited Webster as a 10-year-old pupil at East Wittering Community Primary School.

And the Blues’ former first-team coach is adamant the youngster can rise even higher.

He said: ‘I think Ipswich will be a stepping stone for Adam to go on and do something bigger and better in maybe three or four years team.

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‘Let’s not forget, he is only 21 – he can use that experience to gain a better knowledge of the game and at 25 will easily be ready to step up again if Ipswich don’t get promoted themselves.

‘I know there were a number of clubs interested in him and he is going to be a top, top player for sure.

‘I think he can get to the Premier League, I honestly do.

‘You have to be a bit lucky, for sure, but you also have to have the ability in the first place and there are not many ball-playing centre halves like Adam coming through.

‘He has the ability, the belief, he has never doubted himself – which is good – and is someone level-headed enough to take that step.

‘I am really pleased for him and for the club because it is recognition everyone has done a good job.

‘Hopefully he will go on further, who knows where he could end up.’