John Mousinho confirms reason behind Sam Silvera decision in Portsmouth v Leeds

John Mousinho says Portsmouth debutant Sam Silvera was taken off at half-time against Leeds United as the team were struggling down the left-hand side.

The Pompey head coach spoke to BBC Radio Solent's Ian Wilding [10 August] after a rollercoaster match finished 3-3 at Elland Road, giving his side a point on the board in a tricky opening test.

Silvera worked hard in a first half which concluded with the Blues 2-1 in front, before settling for a draw in a game in which they had their backs to the wall for long periods.

"No [injuries], he's fine, I just thought we were struggling a bit down our left-hand side," Mousinho explained.

"We needed a bit more energy and more legs. Sammy's fine, he played his part, and I think he'll keep improving for that."

Five debutants feature for Portsmouth in opener

Portsmouth are in the process of adapting to life back in the Championship after an absence of over a decade, and have subsequently attempted to bulk out their squad with experience of the level.

Silvera is one of these to come in off the back of playing for Middlesbrough in the second tier last term.

The budget Pompey are operating under, combined with bad luck with injuries (seven players were ruled out on Saturday), mean the task facing Mousinho and his staff has been a mammoth one.

A draw at Leeds in any circumstances is impressive, but with the weight around Portsmouth's shoulders this weekend, they should be tremendously proud of themselves.

Silvera was one of four debutants thrown in by Mousinho from the off, with Matt Ritchie making an emotional second debut for the club with a cameo role in the last seven minutes.

Elias Sorensen enjoyed a successful Pompey bow with a crucial goal, whilst Jordan Williams and Andre Dozzell also played their first competitive games for the club at Elland Road.

In other Portsmouth news, a look back at an ultimately accurate pre-match prediction from a Sky Sports journalist on Leeds vs Pompey.

For more Portsmouth news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.