Portsmouth opt against entering reserve team in two competitions - here's why

The Blues will not participate in either the Premier League Cup or Central League Cup due to the congested first-team fixture list.

Nor will Pompey compete in the Hampshire Senior Cup, with the tournament not going ahead this campaign.

Both the Premier League and Central League cups have given opportunities for fringe players to get match minutes under their belt in recent years.

The Blues first entered the Premier League Cup in 2016-17, reaching the semi-finals of the competition that year.

The likes of Jamal Lowe, Jack Whatmough and Ben Close were regulars as Mikey Harris’ side suffered a 3-0 defeat to Swansea after extra-time.

Pompey had been involved in the Central League Cup for the same duration, playing the likes of AFC Bournemouth and Bristol City along the way.

But with the Covid-19 pandemic delaying the start of the 2020-21 campaign, it means that Kenny Jackett's side’s League One fixture list is more condensed than usual.

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As a result, that leaves fewer gaps in the diary to schedule reserve matches. With first-team games coming around quicker, the Blues don't want to risk picking up any more potential injuries than is necessary.

What's more, Jackett is working with a smaller squad than previously and there will be fewer players who require match minutes.

Meanwhile, several fledgling youngsters in Pompey's academy who'd usually make up the numbers in those games are developing out on loan.

Harry Kavanagh, Gerard Storey and Eoin Teggart are all at Gosport, while Alfie Stanley is currently playing for Bognor.

Haji Mnoga is around Jackett’s squad and made an eye-catching first appearance of the season in Tuesday’s 3-0 win over Southend in the EFL Trophy.

The defender could also complete a temporary exit from Fratton Park, though, with National League clubs interested.

Pompey were mulling over entering a reserve league earlier in the year before the coronavirus crisis put paid to the idea for at least 12 months.

The Blues will organise ad hoc reserve matches should they believe they’re required.

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