Portsmouth fans leap for joy at Rob Atkinson announcement v Derby – ‘Perfect’
John Mousinho has made a brazen call for his Portsmouth side as they take on Derby County in a crunch clash at Fratton Park.
The Championship showdown on Saturday afternoon (12 April) provides Pompey with ample chance to affirm their status in the division next season, with a win taking them six points clear of Derby with four games to go.
The Rams however can leapfrog the Blues on goal difference should they spring a surprise at a ground which has provided almost all of the joy for fans of Mousinho’s team this season.
Mousinho makes five changes as Rob Atkinson returns
Mousinho has sprung a shock by naming five changes to his starting XI from the heartbreaking late defeat at Coventry City in midweek (9 April).
Among them, eyes are instantly drawn to the return of Rob Atkinson in the backline following his several-week-long absence with injury, a massive boost at a key time.
Matt Ritchie also returns to the line-up and captains the side, while Isaac Hayden, Zak Swanson and Christian Saydee have all been given starting berths.
Kusini Yengi is back in the squad – albeit as a substitute – as he looks to revive his season at the best possible time.
Pompey fans have made their feelings clear on the line-up alterations in response to the news on X, with mixed reviews – many excited to see Atkinson back but confused on Tom Waddingham’s entire absence from the matchday squad as well as Alex Milosevic, while Andre Dozzell is perhaps surprisingly dropped to the bench.
Portsmouth can take massive stride to survival with win
Portsmouth know this game could define the end of their season, so Mousinho has rocked the boat at a dangerous but potentially fruitful time.
Pompey are a different beast at home to the wounded animal they represent on their travels, but the last two games have seen individual errors let them down.
| Portsmouth changes v Derby (incoming) | Player out |
| Rob Atkinson | Cohen Bramall |
| Isaac Hayden | Andre Dozzell |
| Zak Swanson | Jordan Williams |
| Matt Ritchie | Adil Aouchiche |
| Christian Saydee | Tom Waddingham |
Mousinho has some strong bench options this time around, some of whom he may be able to offer a rest if the Blues fly out of the blocks and produce a solid display.
Hopefully, Blues fans’ nerves will have turned to joy and stability by 5pm on Saturday afternoon in the South Coast rays.