JOHNNY ERTL: GOODBYE, NINJA TURTLE

Yesterday, a sadness descended over Fratton Park, as one of the nicest guys in football took his leave of Portsmouth FC.

Johnny Ertl has been a beacon for this club.  A genuinely nice guy and a fantastic role model to younger professionals. Yes, Johnny had his detractors. Heaven knows why. In an age where money and egos rule the roost, he was refreshingly himself and we loved him for it.

Look at the guy's Twitter page. He took time yesterday to respond to a deluge, yes deluge, of good luck and thank you messages from Pompey fans, such is the esteem that he has been, and will continue to be, held in.

Johnny Ertl is a special player. He isn't blessed with the God-given talent of a Messi or Ronaldo, but he exudes a quiet modesty and searing professionalism.

The type of player who leads by example but doesn't boast about it. A guy who runs through brick walls for the cause and doesn't flinch. 

He never complains at being left out of the matchday squad, but instead rolls up his sleeves, works hard and patiently waits his chance. When he gets it, he never gives less than 100%. 

He always has time for the fans and is both approachable and straightforward. He gives a much-needed antidote to the antics of ego-driven players on umpteen times his money.