The Blues found themselves 3-0 down after 29 minutes against a side which had won one of their previous 11 matches – and it only got worse.
John Mousinho’s men fully deserved their 4-0 humiliation – and here are our Pompey player ratings...
9. Josh Murphy - 6
(Replaced by Harvey Blair on 53 mins) Forced to come off through an injury, indicating to the bench he needed to be substituted after his left-wing cross landed on the roof of Derby’s net. Had largely been quiet up until that point, other than supplying the pass for Lang to open the scoring from. Photo: Graham Hunt
10. Callum Lang - 8 - MOM
Should be next for a new deal. Restored to the right wing and opened the scoring after cutting in from the right and finishing with his left foot. His energy, drive and determination was a constant threat, never allowing Derby defence to settle. Photo: Graham Hunt
11. Colby Bishop - 6
Recalled to the team and had a terrific battle with Dion Sanderson which showed the value of having a physical centre-forward. His clever lay-off also played a key role in the build up for Pompey’s opener. Photo: Graham Hunt
12. josh murphy during the EFL Sky Bet Championship match between Derby County and Portsmouth at the Pride Park, Derby, England on 20 December 2025.
Josh Murphy in the first half against Derby. Picture: Steve Mower/ProSportsImages Photo: Steve Mower