John Mousinho may have saved Portsmouth with ‘stroke of genius’ move
Portsmouth still have work to do to mathematically confirm their status as a Championship club.
A 1-0 win over Blackburn Rovers on Saturday (29 April) was a boost in Pompey’s efforts for success and leaves them seven points clear of the relegation zone.
A strike from Josh Murphy in the 20th minute proved to be the difference at Fratton Park, but it was a performance from elsewhere that highlighted John Mousinho’s impressive nature.
Mousinho making Portsmouth changes
It’s been a bit of a rollercoaster campaign for Portsmouth in the Championship, but if they can achieve their aims of retaining their position in the second-tier, next season may well be lighter.
Although new faces were recruited in the winter transfer window, Mousinho has also stood by plenty of his players and provided them with the opportunity to make a difference.
Connor Ogilvie is one man who has been a regular in the team, having made 38 league appearances throughout the campaign so far.
| Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| 38 | 4 | 1 |
The left-back has spent the past two games playing as a centre-back instead and earned plaudits for his performances in a Portsmouth shirt as his levels increase.
Alongside Regan Poole, the defensive pairing was largely untroubled by Blackburn at Fratton Park, but this level will have to be taken forward with a trip to Millwall up next.
Mousinho doing everything to save Portsmouth
Although he has faced his struggles along the way both in terms of standards on the pitch and injuries in the side, Mousinho has has a calm nature when facing issues thrown his way.
The manager has proven he has the ability to switch players out of their natural positions and get the best out of them which has kept both his team on their toes, as well as the opposition.
Ogilvie has come under his fair share of criticism throughout the season so far, but he is adapting well to life in a new role and these changes allow Pompey to perform like they have new players.
A trip to The Den up next won’t be an easy task, but the South Coast side will have a bit more confidence after three points and the defensive pairing certainly have the opportunity to show their boss he made the right changes.
It has been a stroke of genius, so far.