Latest Portsmouth signing handed SV Darmstadt start – while £3m newcomer also in squad

Portsmouth have handed new signing Luke Brooke-Smith an immediate opportunity to impress, naming the New Zealand international in the starting lineup for their final pre-season friendly against SV Darmstadt. The summer recruit lines up alongside fellow newcomer Rocco Shein as John Mousinho continues fine-tuning his squad ahead of the Championship campaign. Supporters will also get their first glimpse of £3 million striker Marko Milovanovic, who has been included in his first Pompey matchday squad after completing his move. Although the Serbian forward begins on the bench, his presence is a significant boost as expectations grow around his attacking quality. The 12-man substitutes’ bench also features goalkeeper Daniel Bielica and trialist Arvin Appiah, who continues to push for a permanent contract. With competition increasing across the squad, Portsmouth’s latest additions will be eager to make strong statements before the new season officially gets underway and excite the Fratton Park faithful.