Gary O’Neil was in attendance at Fratton Park on Saturday, as Portsmouth played out a 1-1 draw against Oxford United.
The former Pompey midfielder was eventually left disappointed, as the club’s fans were, after Oxford United scored a 91st-minute equaliser, canceling out Gareth Evans’ penalty just before the hour mark.
The 36-year-old tweeted a message to the fans following the game’s culmination:
Great to be back at Fratton Park Disappointing that the team couldn’t get the win but onwards and upwards. #PUP pic.twitter.com/RcYWaL6BSv
— Gary O’Neil (@Gazoneil) November 2, 2019
Many Portsmouth fans have made their former player an offer after seeing that he was back in the stands: get back involved with the team.
O’Neil played a total of 176 games for Pompey throughout his career, as per Transfermarkt, with some fans suggesting he should get back on the pitch for them.
There were others who indicated they would be open to seeing him become their manager, after growing tired of having Kenny Jackett in charge.
A selection of Twitter reaction to O’Neil’s comment, including posts from reminiscing Portsmouth fans, can be seen below:
We would have you back straight away Gary! Manager or player? Either would work!
— Terry Stack (@TerryStack3) November 2, 2019
Why didn’t just get involved boots under the stairs still?
— James Harman (@Emerston) November 2, 2019
We’re diabolical Gary, pick your position you’ll be an upgrade.
— Reece (@reece_2699) November 2, 2019
Fancy a crack at being the manager?
— Stew (@PFCStew) November 2, 2019
Wanna be manager??
— Declan McGreal (@McgrealDeclan) November 2, 2019
Sign up @Gazoneil we could do with u
— barry john watson (@bazzawats1975) November 2, 2019
Portsmouth fans, do you have fond memories of O’Neil’s time with your club? Join the discussion by commenting below…
