Portsmouth vs Middlesbrough: 10 players could miss out at Fratton Park amid injury and suspension latest
Portsmouth are set to take on Middlesbrough on Saturday in the final game before the October international break.
John Mousinho’s side have had a rough few weeks and have not won a match since August.
Wednesday’s 2-2 draw against Watford at Fratton Park only heightened concerns, with Portsmouth struggling against a side that has had an awful start to the new campaign.
Now, with Middlesbrough up next, there is a hope that Pompey can get back to winning ways.
However, given the recent team news, Mousinho will have a difficult time completing this challenge.
Josh Murphy could miss Portsmouth vs Middlesbrough
Once again, Mousinho has been unable to confirm if Josh Murphy will be back in action for Portsmouth’s upcoming game.
The Murphy has been out of action since the draw against Southampton with a minor ankle injury.
Now, while he hasn’t been ruled out of the clash, it seems unlikely that he will start regardless.
On top of this, Mousinho has confirmed that Franco Umeh will not be available until after the international break as the Fratton Park faithful await to see their new signing in action.
Callum Lang, Nicolas Schmid, Conor Shaughnessy and Thomas Waddingham remain long-term absentees for Pompey.
Middlesbrough come into the match in slightly better shape. Callum Brittain and Dael Fry are fit to play a part in the match after their recent knocks.
However, George Edmundson is now unavailable after being forced off against Stoke City on Tuesday.
Rob Edwards is also dealing with long-term absentees, with Darragh Lenihan, Seny Dieng and Riley McGree all on the sidelines.
John Mousinho will be looking for players to step up against Middlesbrough
While many of Portsmouth’s main stars are injured, it is a great opportunity for others to show Mousinho why they should be in the starting XI.
Yang Min-hyeok did this against Watford when he netted the opener in a great performance by the Tottenham loanee.
Now, other stars need to start proving themselves, especially against a tough opponent like Middlesbrough.
If Pompey were to pick up a victory on Saturday, it would be a massive boost heading into the international break.
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