It’s been a frustrating start to the new season for Pompey, who currently sit four points above the relegation zone.
Despite picking up two wins in their opening four matches, the Blues have claimed just one victory in the following 11 games, which has seen them slump down the Championship table.
John Mousinho has been hampered by injuries to a number of key personnel in the opening three months of the campaign, with the likes of Josh Murphy, Conor Shaughnessy, Callum Lang, Nicolas Schmid and more unavailable at various points.
Although some members of the injured cohort are closing in on their much-anticipated returns, others like Connor Ogilvie and Thomas Waddingham are still set for an extended period on the sidelines.
But what would Pompey’s strongest XI and bench look like IF the head coach had every player at his disposal?
Although Mousinho has had to contend with injuries throughout the campaign so far, here’s how we think the Blues could line-up if they had a clean bill of health.
Do you agree with our starting XI and bench?
17. SUB 5: John Swift
Swift has been played in various positions across the midfield in the absences of Pack and Lang. If everyone was to be fit, though, the 30-year-old would have to settle for a spot on the bench. | Dennis Goodwin/ProSportsImages
18. SUb 6: Adrian Segecic
The Aussie talent has been a revelation since his arrival in June and is the Blues’ top scorer this term. He adds valuable competition to the forward line and will no doubt keep Chaplin on his toes for a starting spot in the number 10 role. Photo: Dan Istitene
19. SUB 7: Minhyeok Yang
There’s been some really bright sparks from the Spurs loanee during his time at PO4, but with Murphy back fit and firing, the 19-year-old would have to be utilised from the bench. Photo: Graham Hunt
20. SUB 8: Harvey Blair
It’s been a frustrating start to the season for the 22-year-old, who initially missed the first seven games due to the hamstring injury, which was sustained on the final day of last season. However, on his return, the winger felt an issue in training and has been left out of the previous six squads. Can be explosive off the bench and will be needed on his return. | Graham Hunt/ProSportsImages