‘The reality is…’ – BBC pundit shares ‘Difficult’ Portsmouth verdict amid injury setbacks
Portsmouth have suffered from the absences of key men both defensively and going forward, according to Sam Parkin.
The former striker, who represented the likes of Ipswich Town, Luton Town and Swindon Town during his playing career, joined Chris Wise and Andy Moon on BBC Radio Solent on Tuesday [15 October].
BBC pundit Parkin name-dropped Colby Bishop, Regan Poole and Conor Shaughnessy as vital absentees who have affected Pompey at various times, and admits it is high time to pick points up more regularly.
“The reality is that it’s going to be a difficult season. I’m not sure how much will change in January, but it’s about getting Bishop back when he’s up to speed when he gets the green light,” Parkin said on the radio station’s ‘Who Needs Mourinho’ podcast.
“I think [his absence] has hindered Portsmouth as much as it has defensively. I can see with my own eyes when I’ve watched them that Regan Poole and Conor Shaughnessy were clearly two standouts.
“In the main, the feeling I’ve got from the fanbase is one of optimism, but also balance. I don’t think there has been too much criticism, but the points do need to start coming in now because the fixtures are looking slightly rosier, shall we say.”
Portsmouth have to take advantage of ‘rosier’ fixtures
The “rosier” fixtures Portsmouth are contending with – in the words of Parkin – certainly include the next two, against QPR [Saturday 19 October] and Cardiff City [Tuesday 22 October].
The Hoops and the Bluebirds join Pompey in the Championship drop zone at the moment, and the following week could lay the foundations for the rest of the season at Fratton Park.
John Mousinho’s side have gone toe-to-toe with some of the best opponents in the division in a ruthless early run of games, but despite creditable performances have been unable to see out wins.
When October began with fixtures against Stoke City and Oxford United, fans were optimistic – but that went up in flames at the bet365 Stadium with a dismal 6-1 defeat, followed by a 1-1 home draw with Mousinho’s former club despite attempting 22 shots.
The period between now and next month’s international break could be season-defining for Pompey, be it celebration bells or alarm bells.
In other Portsmouth news, David Norris discusses why the club have faltered this season.
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