The Blues have now entered a hugely important January transfer window, one which will dictate whether they successfully fight against the drop for consecutive seasons.
And here are our Blues player ratings for the campaign so far…
1. Terry Devlin celebrates with Zak Swanson after scoring the opening goal against QPR
Terry Devlin celebrates with Zak Swanson after scoring the opening goal against QPR on Boxing Day. Picture: Graham Hunt/ProSportsImages Photo: Graham Hunt
2. Nicolas Schmid - 7
Nicolas Schmid - 15 games (15 games) An awful Bristol City display underpinned that abysmal 5-0 New Year’s Day hammering, yet, in fairness, it represented a rare blip in his Pompey career. Still a big performer for the Blues and signing a new long-term deal last month was understandably well received. Missed 10 games earlier in the season with a broken right hand sustained against Southampton. Photo: Graham Hunt
3. Ben Killip - 5
(3 games) Originally challenged with deputising for the injured Schmid in September, but it didn’t last long. While Mousinho has defended Killip’s kicking and distribution, the fans have never been convinced. After the dismal 2-0 defeat to Sheffield Wednesday, Bursik came into the side and performed far better. Once Schmid returned from injury, Killip dropped out of the squad. Photo: Graham Hunt
4. Josef Bursik - 6.5
(9 games) A rare summer signing success. Swiftly replaced Ben Killip as Pompey’s number two and really impressed during a nine-game run in the injury absence of Schmid. Composed, calm and certainly looks a better player than Killip. Eventually had to give way upon the return of number one Schmid, but no reflection on his own displays. Photo: Graham Hunt