TOM Davies has left Accrington Stanley and signed for Portsmouth, but Reds boss John Coleman is hopeful that several of the Wham Stadium stars will sign up for the 2016-17 season.

Davies enjoyed a fine campaign as Stanley reached the play-offs and was offered new terms to stay at the club.

But the 24-year-old has opted to sign for Portsmouth – managed by former Reds chief Paul Cook – who like Stanley were losing play-off semi-finalists last season.

And the centre back is looking forward to playing at Fratton Park.

“I’m buzzing and excited about pulling on that blue shirt,” said Davies. “I heard about the interest last week and as soon as Pompey’s name was mentioned, I told my agent that was where I wanted to go.

“The first couple of games were really tight last season, but the wall of noise when you come out of the tunnel at Fratton Park is incredible. I can’t wait to experience that every other week.

“Pompey played us off the park up at Accrington later on and it’s great to now be a part of that side.

“This place is amazing and the standards are very high, so it’s up to me to make sure that I reach them.”

Meanwhile, Stanley welcomed back a number of out-of-contract players to pre-season training last week, including Adam Buxton, Rommy Boco, Terry Gornell and Shay McCartan.

All have been offered new contracts and Coleman is hopeful they will put pen to paper.

“I hope the lads who have come back will stay,” said Coleman. “I know that Terry definitely is. I have to finalise things with Bucko, but I think that will get done.”