Portsmouth hope to keep trio

The striker has rejoined Tottenham in a reported £15million ($A31million) deal almost 12 months after moving from White Hart Lane to Fratton Park.

Portsmouth, though, are determined to continue their squad development - which has been further hit by the departure of Lassana Diarra to Real Madrid in a £19.4million ($A40.05million) deal.

Adams revealed the negotiations over Johnson's contract extension are '90 percent complete' - with Liverpool reported to be ready to make a bid for the full-back.

Former Arsenal defender Adams is keen to surround himself with players committed to the Pompey cause.

He told BBC Radio Solent: "If you work hard and are scrapping for Portsmouth and pleasing the manager, you will be rewarded.

"Glen is fighting fit at the moment, and I am delighted to welcome him back. He is a player I want here for a good time.

"I think it's a good stage for him. It's a good place, and he's got back in the England team by playing for Portsmouth."

Hughes joined Portsmouth in 2002 and is one of the club's longest-serving players.

"Richard is good to have around the place and he's very positive," said Adams.

"Every time we've used him over the last couple of years he's come in and done a job for you.

"He's ever dependable and so valuable for a squad, a club and a manager."

Adams also paid tribute to the efforts of Davis, who arrived at Fratton Park from Spurs during the 2006 January transfer window and helped them escape from relegation.

"Sean will not let me down in any position," said the Pompey boss.

"He's got legs and covers the distances and is a good technical passer.

"I think the fans are taking to him a little bit with his attitude and his workrate.

"I'm a big fan of Sean Davis at the moment."

One player who could benefit from Defoe's departure is David Nugent.

The 23-year-old - the England cap who was signed from Preston in a big-money deal - has been used on the right in a 4-5-1 formation.

Nugent told the Portsmouth News: "I prefer being a striker. But at the moment the gaffer is playing me out wide right, and I am enjoying being back in the side.

"I am just doing a job for the team really.

"I hope I can get a few more games to get match fit and start producing some performances for the club."