Oxford United’s John Mousinho linked with Portsmouth manager job

Oxford United’s club captain gained his UEFA Pro Licence, the highest coaching qualification in the country, last year.

The 36-year-old juggled the 18-month course with his role as chair of the Professional Footballers’ Association, and is often seen on the touchline as part of Karl Robinson’s coaching set-up.

Mousinho is also responsible for United’s set pieces, both defensively and offensively.

Exc: Understand that John Mousinho is under serious consideration to become the next head coach of Portsmouth. He’s Chairman of the PFA, and is still under contract as a player with Oxford United. #Pompey #OUFC

— Chris Wise (@chriswisey) January 19, 2023

Oxford United first-team coach John Mousinho is serious contender to be the new #Pompey Head Coach #oufc

— Andrew Moon (@mrandrewmoon) January 19, 2023

I understand Oxford United's John Mousinho is on the shortlist to be #Pompey's next head coach. More details soon.

— Neil Allen (@pn_neil_allen) January 19, 2023

In October, he told BBC Radio Oxford’s Five Minute Fans Forum that although he had yet to receive any managerial job offers, he was prepared to take on a vacancy.

He said: “I don’t think I’m ever going to be fully ready, I don’t think anyone ever is going into any job.

“I’ve done as much preparation as I can, and I speak to the manager quite often about this.

READ AGAIN: John Mousinho says he is ready to take on a managerial job

“I’ve been working closely with the manager here, which is brilliant and I feel very lucky to be able to do that.

“I’m not entirely sure on timescales, and when I would ever properly feel ready but certainly I think an exciting chapter coming up.”

Mousinho’s contract with the U’s runs out in the summer.

Portsmouth are looking for a new boss following the sacking of Danny Cowley earlier this month.