Portsmouth defender Conor Shaughnessy says online rumours and conspiracy theories “brought a smile” to his face while he recovered from a long-term injury.
The central defender has suffered injuries to both of his calves this campaign, one a nagging issue at the start of the season and the other a tear while running in training that saw him miss more than two months.
During that time some fans had taken to social media to share theories that Shaughnessy had been in a physical altercation with head coach John Mousinho and was heading for the exit door.
“They can be put to bed I think,” the 28-year-old Irishman laughed when speaking to BBC Radio Solent.
“The conspiracy theories over the last few months have been quite good entertainment.
“They’ve even brought a smile to my face but there is definitely nothing in them, it’s just great to be back on the pitch.”
Mousinho has also consistently denied and rubbished the claims when asked about posts from fans online.
Shaughnessy made his return to the Portsmouth side on Tuesday when he came off the bench with just over 10 minutes remaining in the 1-0 defeat by Millwall.
This was a significant moment given he had only featured in their opening two matches, missing more than five months since his last appearance in August.
Last season, he played 45 league games for the Blues as they were promoted from League One to the Championship as title-winners.
“I’ve had a couple of long-term injuries so far [in my career],” Shaughnessy added.
“But this one was probably the most frustrating because at the beginning it felt like it was going to just be a week but then we had setbacks and it was mentally difficult to get your head around.
“If I was told at the start that I was going to be out for five months it would have probably have been easier for me to get my head around more but we’re here now and I’m back and feeling good.”
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