But the suspicion was the midfielder wouldn’t be short of suitors, after playing a significant role in John Mousinho’s side over the second half of the campaign.
Despite this, Ryan Tunnicliffe remains without a club following the closing of the transfer market last week.
That, of course, isn’t an impediment to the former Manchester United starlet joining a club after deadline day as a free agent.
However, Tunnicliffe still looking for a new job with the season well underway is a scenario that may raise an eyebrow or two.
After falling out of favor under Danny Cowley following his arrival from Luton Town in 2021, the 30-year-old was linked with moves to the MLS and Australia.
The summer buzz, though, concentrated on Charlton Athletic’s alleged interest in the former Millwall, Ipswich, and Fulham midfielder.
Tunnicliffe, who traveled to Pompey from his home in Bromley, southeast London, would have approved of the move.
Mourinho was called by a number of clubs seeking for a character reference for the player who made 69 appearances at Fratton Park, but a deal was never finalized.
Mourinho was more than glad to oblige, with Tunniciffe making 20 appearances after taking over for Cowley in January.
After his departure, he observed of Tunnicliffe, ‘Tunni was fantastic. When we chatted, we discussed how he had revitalized his career here at the tail end of the season. He performed admirably and started a large amount of games, certainly more than he or anyone else in Portsmouth expected.
‘His performances were good and he was part of the side who pushed and got close to the play-offs at one point. He performed really well, but it was one in terms of Ryan being able to go and get a decent, longer-term contract somewhere at a more advanced stage of his career.
‘It was an easier conversation because plenty of clubs have come knocking and asked about Ryan. So I’m sure he’ll go on and get a decent contract somewhere else and that will be a positive for this club and Ryan as well.’
It’s not panned quite as anticipated or hoped for the man from Manchester, however, as he joins the swathe of pros still looking to find themselves a new home.
