Mousinho ‘makes superb defensive decision’ in two Portsmouth changes v Norwich
John Mousinho has named his team to take on Norwich City as Portsmouth look to solidify their survival bid in the Championship.
The head coach has made two alterations to his side from the starting XI which began the 2-2 draw with Derby County last Saturday (12 April), keeping them four points above the drop zone heading into the Good Friday fixtures.
Pompey will be eager to build on a dismal away record this season which has yielded just two victories, as they take on a Norwich side without a great deal left to play for.
Mousinho decision could prove crucial against Norwich force
Portsmouth have announced their starting XI for the Good Friday afternoon clash at Carrow Road (18 April).
Adil Aouchiche has been drafted back into the line-up by Mousinho in place of Christian Saydee, the young Frenchman having looked lively in his appearances for Pompey so far but just requiring that upgrade in end product.
What could be the key move is bringing Jordan Williams back in at right-back ahead of Zak Swanson. While Swanson does combine very fruitfully with Matt Ritchie on Pompey’s right-hand side, Williams does offer the better defensive stability.
This could prove pivotal up against a Norwich side who have been suspect defensively but excellent going forward, with two of the Championship’s top three goalscorers – Borja Sainz and Josh Sargent – both in from the off for the Canaries.
Elsewhere, the side remains as we were. Connor Ogilvie retains his place at left-back, having been moved back out of central defence last weekend following the return of man-of-the-moment Rob Atkinson.
Isaac Hayden again starts ahead of Andre Dozzell, while Josh Murphy lines up on the left flank against the side whom he represented 100 times.
➡️ Williams, Aouchiche.
— Portsmouth FC (@Pompey) April 18, 2025
📋 Two changes to the #Pompey XI. pic.twitter.com/IcG1Qec5jg
Portsmouth can take huge stride towards safety
Any return from Norfolk on Friday will do Portsmouth. A draw will at least keep the water trodden for another round of fixtures, and would look an impressive away result.
Victory at Carrow Road would be superb, and nothing many expect. The Championship does however have a habit of throwing up the seldom anticipated.
| Portsmouth changes v Norwich | |
| Jordan Williams (in) | Zak Swanson (out) |
| Adil Aouchiche (in) | Christian Saydee (out) |
Norwich boss Johannes Hoff Thorup will be keen to end the season strongly, despite the fact his side’s defensive record has cost them a realistic run at the play-offs.
After the end of Friday’s games, the league picture will be a little less blurred, before an Easter Monday return to Fratton Park against Watford (21 April).