If it’s bad news over the League One title winner it’s a significant blow, following his reassuring return from a five-month calf lay-off.
There are options at the back for John Mousinho, but the Pompey boss does have the option of moving into the free agent market to bolster his back line.
The Blues have left one space open in their 25-man squad to do just that, something the recruitment did last year when impacted by midfield issues.
Lee Evans arrived to bolster that department back then - here’s a list of 12 central defenders who could do likewise this time.
9. Adama Soumaoro
The Frenchman played for Lille before moving to Serie A side Bologna four years ago for 2.5m Euros. Played regularly in the Italian top flight under Thiago Motta, but was out for a year with ruptured patellar tendon in his knee before returning to fitness last summer | Getty Images
10. Sean Morrison
Cardiff stalwart played 30 Championship games with Rotherham last season, but the 34-year-old hasn’t got a club this term and has been coaching with the Bluebirds. Suggestion is he’s still keen to play. Photo: Ed Sykes/Getty Images
11. Koffi Djidji
The 32-year-old has been linked with West Ham and Italian giants Roma in recent months, but still hasn’t got a home. Ivory Coast international played for Torino in Serie A last season. | AFP via Getty Images
12. Merveille Bokadi
West Ham were linked with the DR Congo international earlier in the season, but was said to be going to Turkish side Erzurumspor instead. The 6ft 1in man who was in Belgium with Standard Liege last term is still to sign for anyone, however. | BELGA MAG/AFP via Getty Images