Kenny Jackett: Why I had to overhaul Portsmouth's team against MK Dons

And afterwards there was vindication for Kenny Jackett’s team tinkering as Pompey returned to winning ways with a 3-1 success over MK Dons.

The Blues boss elected to make five changes for last night’s visit of Russell Martin’s strugglers.

Those that made way in the aftermath of Saturday’s 1-0 loss at promotion rivals Fleetwood were James Bolton, Steve Seddon, Cameron McGeehan, Marcus Harness and Oli Hawkins.

Instead they were replaced by the fit-again Andy Cannon, along with Ross McCrorie, Ben Close and Ryan Williams.

Meanwhile, Lee Brown was handed a first outing since the start of December against Peterborough.

And the re-energised Blues marked a return to fifth in League.

Jackett said: ‘I usually like to be as consistent as I can with team selection, but I did feel there was quite a number of people who needed to come in and give us a bit more sparkle than we had on Saturday.

‘It hasn’t happened to us many times, but did seem perhaps an end of a long week and maybe the emotion of a semi-final.

‘There was no lack of effort at Fleetwood, we just looked half-a-yard short of what we normally are and didn't create anything or get going.

‘I did think last night there were some changes needed and was pleased with the response of the squad and balance of the team.

‘We needed it from Saturday and have a good squad. Most importantly, we have a number of midweek games on the trot, and a high amount of matches.

‘We’ll need to make further changes at the right time because energy is really important.’

Ellis Harrison is still hampered by his dead leg, otherwise Jackett had a full squad to choose from against MK Dons.

Next up is the visit of Rochdale to Fratton Park on Friday.

And the manager insists the players are accepting his rotation policy during the busy schedule.

Jackett added: ‘It was needed, it’s important the players take things in the right way and understand that we will need everybody.’