John Mousinho lauds Terry Devlin after what he did at Portsmouth

John Mousinho says Terry Devlin was "Man of the Match" for Portsmouth against Sheffield Wednesday while explaining his selection.

Devlin slotted in at right-back for his first league start for Pompey at this level and impressed many with his display despite the 2-1 defeat on Friday [25 October].

The 20-year-old has staked his claim to remain a part of the Blues' backline moving forward.

"Terry was great, his performance was excellent, particularly as it was his first Championship start and with playing out of position as well. I’m really, really happy with Terry’s contribution," Mousinho told The News [29 October].

"He got back into the squad not because of injuries, [but] because he deserved to. It’s about what he’s done in training, that’s how we go about our business, we look at what players do every day in training and we pick teams and squads off the back of that.

"I know not everybody can see that, but Terry always does that, he always gives us everything we need. I think it’s fair to say Terry was man of the match."

Terry Devlin versatility could be important for Portsmouth

Despite primarily operating as a midfielder and playing most of his 31 games for Pompey ahead of the defence, Devlin took to the task very well last weekend.

Celebrating his 21st birthday next week, the youngster - who received his first call-up to the senior Northern Ireland squad in 2023 as he awaits a debut - has time on his side to mould himself into an excellent Championship player.

Versatility is key to that. The best players can fill into certain positions seamlessly - Callum Lang has been arguably the club's best player in a tough campaign so far and can slot in anywhere across the front four.

Due to a mixture of injuries and form, Mousinho has struggled to identify his best available team and the defence has flattered to deceive at times.

But if Devlin can provide a consistent full-back option to the head coach, he may just have found an avenue for sustained game time - and a potential resale value with his current deal expiring in 2026.

In other Portsmouth news, Sam Hudson reacts to a cruel turn of fate for the Under-18s.

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