Portsmouth vs Watford: Nine players could miss out at Fratton Park amid injury and suspension latest
Portsmouth go into the Watford clash in a bit of an injury crisis.
Numerous players are out of action for Pompey as they prepare for their upcoming Championship match.
This has resulted in a downturn in form, with Portsmouth’s 2-1 defeat against Ipswich sending the South Coast club down to 17th in the table.
However, Pompey are not the only team suffering from injuries, with Watford also set to have players out for the clash.
Josh Murphy one of nine players who could be out for Portsmouth vs Watford
One of the biggest questions going into the match is whether Josh Murphy is set to be fit for Portsmouth.
The winger has been out of action with a minor ankle injury. However, Mousinho has recently confirmed that there is a chance that Murphy could play against Watford.
However, this is the only pleasant news on the injury front for Pompey, with numerous first-teamers still on the sidelines.
Franco Umeh remains awaiting his debut after picking up a knock after signing for Portsmouth on deadline day.
On top of this, Nicolas Schmid, Conor Shaughnessy, Callum Lang and Thomas Waddingham all remain on the sidelines with long-term injuries.
- Portsmouth are currently in an injury crisis
- Six first-teamers could be unavailable for the Ipswich match
- However, the situation is getting better, with Harvey Blair now available for selection
For Watford, the visitors have left injuries, but still have players out on the sidelines.
Kwadwo Baah is likely to be out of the Portsmouth match after picking up an injury in Watford’s victory over Hull on the weekend.
On top of this, Giorgi Chakvetadze and Jack Grieves remain out of action.
Neither team has any suspension concerns going into the match. However, if John Swift picks up another yellow card for Portsmouth, he will receive a one-match ban.
John Mousinho has to play Murphy if fit
If Murphy is able to play a part in the match, Mousinho has to take that risk.
The winger is by far Portsmouth’s biggest attacking threat and has been sorely missed in recent weeks.
Therefore, for a winnable match such as Watford, Murphy simply has to play, even if it rules him out of the upcoming tie against Middlesbrough.
Hopefully, Mousinho recognises this and ensures the winger gets minutes if it is possible.
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