Lawrence: I don't want to leave

The Blues skipper was recently linked with a move to Nottingham Forest to join up with former boss Steve Cotterill and there have even been rumours that it’s already a done deal.

With the club’s financial predicament increasing, the chances are Pompey will have to generate transfer revenue in the January transfer window.

Lawrence would be among their most saleable assets.

And while the popular midfielder insists he wants to stay and knows nothing about any supposed interest from Forest, he understands he could have little choice in the matter if the club is forced to cash in.

Lawrence said: ‘People are putting two and two together and getting five.

‘There’s nothing going on at the minute that I know about.

‘You never know, I suppose. I might be one they might be looking to get out if the financial situation doesn’t improve.

‘Sometimes in football these things are taken out of your hands and if that happens, then it happens.

‘But I’m settled, my family is with me and I love it down here.

‘The fans are brilliant with me and I’ve got no problems.

‘I would much rather stay but I just hope the club gets sorted.’

While other players would choose to keep their options open over a possible transfer, Lawrence is the type of character to give an honest assessment.

And he remains focused on returning to fitness and form.

He said: ‘All I do is concentrate on my football.

‘I think most people know what I’m like and know that all I want to do is play.

‘But I’m just concentrating on getting myself fit, getting back in the team and playing well again.’