At the 12-game mark, John Mousinho’s men remain undefeated and six points clear of third spot after racking up six successive wins in all competitions.
Admittedly, these are still early days for the Blues, but let’s have a look at those players who have taken them to such an encouraging position to date.
Here is every member of Pompey’s playing squad rated and reviewed for their contribution so far in the 2023-24 campaign...
21. Paddy Lane - 8
A pre-season injury collected at AFC Wimbledon delayed his League One entrance this term, but the Northern Ireland international has rapidly made up for lost time. Netted in successive games at Barnsley, Lincoln and Wigan and is a player full of confidence and bang in form, barring Gavin Whyte's route into the first-team. Has been Pompey's best winger this season to date and that sublime finish at Barnsley remains strong in the memory. There's a real sense his best is still to come. (11 games, 3 goals) Photo: Jason Brown
22. Anthony Scully - 5
Collected a knee injury on his debut against Bristol Rovers and tried to battle on, but has never been the same since, requiring an operation which will keep him out for the remainder of 2023. Been a hugely frustrating time for the former Lincoln man who enjoyed a strong end to pre-season and has an impressive pedigree at this level. Still plenty of time for him to fire, though. (6 games, 0 goals) Photo: Jason Brown
23. Christian Saydee - 7
Taken little time in making himself popular with the Pompey fans, who love his passion, physicality, effort and work-rate, with the chant of 'Saydee' becoming more regular. John Mousinho is still searching for Saydee's most effective position, although that does appear to be behind the striker rather than an out-and-out centre-forward. Not yet providing goals and assists, but still so much else to admire about his performances. (12 games, 1 goal) Photo: Jason Brown
24. Kusini Yengi - 7
Been a revelation during an eventful start to his Pompey career. A stoppage-time equaliser against Bristol Rovers on his debut, two goals on his maiden start in the Carabao Cup against Forest Green - and then scoring again in his second match back after seven weeks out injured. Gives a different attacking option and will be fascinating to watch how his season develops after such an outstanding beginning. (5 games, 5 goals) Photo: Jason Brown