(Credit: Imago)
(Credit: Imago)
Match

Makenzie Kirk awarded Pompey debut in three changes – Portsmouth predicted XI vs Sheffield Wednesday

Jack Dawson
Jack Dawson

Correspondent AUTHORITY Football journalist with experience at the Edinburgh Evening News and GRV Media; Masters graduate from the University of Derby. FOCUS Scottish Premiership coverage with specialist knowledge of Rangers, Celtic, Hearts, Aberdeen, and Motherwell. THE INSIGHT Jack utilises a network of club and industry contacts across the Scottish Premiership to deliver verified, high-speed reporting. He provides the tactical and transfer insight behind the headlines to ensure fans get the full story as it happens.

Published on: 

Portsmouth face Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday, with John Mousinho’s side heavy favourites to win.

The Owls are in a right mess coming into the match, with their off-field issues plaguing their current campaign.

In comparison, Portsmouth have had a great start to the 2025/26 season and currently sit ninth in the Championship.

As a result, Pompey News have attempted to predict how the South Coast side will line up for the match.

John Mousinho, Portsmouth manager
John Mousinho will be expected to pick up three points against Sheffield Wednesday (Credit: Imago)

John Mousinho to make three changes for Portsmouth vs Sheffield Wednesday

Starting off in goal, given that Nicolas Schmid picked up an injury against Southampton, it is likely that Ben Killip starts after his appearance against the Saints.

On the flanks are Zak Swanson and Jordan Williams, with Connor Ogilvie also picking up an injury in Sunday’s match.

The rest of the backline remains the same, with Regan Poole partnering Conor Shaughnessy in central defence.

  • Schmid and Ogilvie are likely to be unavailable for the match
  • Killip and Williams are likely to come into the team
  • Kirk could also make his debut against Sheffield Wednesday

Into midfield, and John Swift and Andre Dozzell keep their places, after a stunning performance against Southampton.

Conor Chaplin remains as the attacking midfielder, with Adrian Segecic and Josh Murphy on the wings.

Up top, Makenzie Kirk comes into the starting XI to make his debut as Colby Bishop continues to struggle for form at Portsmouth.

Portsmouth predicted XI vs Sheffield Wednesday graphic
John Mousinho could make three changes for Sheffield Wednesday (Credit: Breaking Media)

Multiple debuts likely at Fratton Park on Saturday

On top of Kirk, it is likely that Mousinho offers more debuts on Saturday against the Owls.

Given the weak nature of the opposition, if Pompey comfortably leads, the manager may be more inclined to make changes to his squad.

Franco Umeh also signed for Portsmouth on deadline day, and he will be looking to make an appearance against Sheffield Wednesday.

Josef Bursik could also make his debut, coming into the starting XI for Killip. However, this is unlikely given that the keeper may not be Mousinho’s number two.

Enjoyed this article? Stay connected with all the latest Portsmouth news, updates, and behind-the-scenes content by following us on our new Instagram account - @pompeynews247

John Mousinho
Makenzie Kirk
www.theportsmouthnews.com