However, remarkably, with two matches to spare, John Mousinho’s men stayed up following an Easter Monday victory over Watford at Fratton Park.
Ultimately, the Blues finished 16th in the Championship – five points above the relegation zone – for a fine finish back at this level after a 12-year absence.
And here are Neil Allen’s ratings for each Pompey player for the 2024-25 season...
5. Jordan Williams - 7.5
(22 games, 0 goals) Played every league match for Barnsley the previous season, starting 45 of them, yet has suffered a torrid time with a succession of injuries since moving to Fratton Park, particularly hamstring. Such a shame as he's shown plenty of quality at times, including a man-of-the-match display against Stoke in January. Also helped out at centre-half on occasions. His time will come. Photo: Jason Brown
6. Terry Devlin - 8
(36 games, 0 goals) The Irishman’s energy, drive and enthusiasm have helped establish him as a big Pompey favourite. The Fratton faithful sing ‘He plays where he wants’, yet it’s at right-back which Mousinho views as Devlin’s most effective position. Undoubtedly a breakthrough season in which the 21-year-old also made his Northern Ireland debut and was given a new three-and-a-half year contract in February. Photo: Jason Brown/ProSportsImages
7. Ibane Bowat
(0 games) Was an unused substitute against Sunderland following his deadline day arrival, yet subsequently tore the patellar tendon in his knee in training just days later. That injury ruled the former Fulham man out for the season without kicking a ball competitively for his new club. Expected to feature in pre-season. Photo: Jason Brown
8. Jacob Farrell - 6
(1 game) Suffered three MCL injuries this season and, on the last occasion in January, it was decided to write off the campaign and undergo an operation on his problematic knee. Returned to Australia last month, with the Australian FA overseeing the latest stage of his rehab. Made one appearance, against Sheffield United in September, and it was a tough debut against Jesurun Rak-Sakyi. However, once the winger was subbed, Farrell began to shine and could have won the match with a late header. Photo: Jason Brown