Kevin Bannon

Tue 30 September 2025 15:00, UK

Portsmouth are currently on their worst run of the season.

Portsmouth were poor in their defeat to Ipswich last Saturday, and were perhaps lucky to only lose the game 2-1.

John Mousinho’s side now face Watford on Wednesday night, looking to avoid three successive defeats and their second straight home loss.

Portsmouth currently have a lot of injury problems in their squad, and Mousinho needs to adapt his squad to get results.

Mousinho’s position isn’t under scrutiny at the moment, but if this poor form continues, the owners may elect for a fresh start if Pompey are in trouble.

Alternatively, he could do so well that he ends up being linked with top Championship jobs again.

Pompey News has looked at some potential candidates Michael Eisner may turn to if Mousinho were to be relieved of his duties.

David Artell – Grimsby Carabao Cup hero

The Grimsby manager was in the headlines after his side knocked Manchester United out of the Carabao Cup last month.

They also went on to defeat Championship side Sheffield Wednesday in the next round, something Portsmouth failed to do earlier this season.

Artell currently has Grimsby fifth in the League Two table, after finishing ninth last season.

While it’s a big step up from League Two to the Championship, Artell’s sides are full of passion and energy, and Artell is highly thought of in the EFL.

Damien Duff – Shock title-winner in Ireland

Damien Duff is a left-field choice but would be a fascinating appointment at Fratton Park.

The Irishman is only young in his managerial career, but has already tasted success in his first job as head coach.

Duff unexpectedly led Shelbourne to their first League of Ireland title since 2006 last campaign, when the Dublin side were 25/1 to win it at the start of the season.

He is a fiery character who is not shy in voicing his feelings, but his Shels side was organised and difficult to break down, something Portsmouth have the players to be as well.

Duff left Shelbourne in June and is currently a free agent, and could be an intriguing prospect to come in.

Dean Smith – Ex-Aston Villa boss could be Portsmouth’s man

Dean Smith is an experienced manager in English football who has gained promotion from The Championship.

Now in charge of Charlotte FC in the MLS, Smith has led the team into the play-offs both seasons he’s been in charge, recently defeating Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami 3-0.

He had a poor spell in charge of Norwich most recently, and may have a sense of unfinished business in England.

While Smith may not be the most glamorous name, he is a solid option that would bring Portsmouth stability and know what it means to get promoted.

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