A combination of injuries and suspensions has increased the Blues’ defensive woes this season, which was reflected in their latest victory against Gillingham.
The former Lincoln boss had no senior centre-halves fit for selection and named a backline filled with makeshift options at Priestfield.
However, those who wore royal blue performed remarkably and kept a clean sheet in the 1-0 victory over Steve Evans side.
But this is unlikely to stop the Fratton club from entering the market next month, with reinforcements certainly needed.
Click through the list of players throughout the EFL and Non-League who could arrive on the south coast in 32 days time.
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9. Harry Lennon (26 y/o) - Wrexham
Lennon has been an ever-present for Wrexham this season and has continually grown in prominence. The 26-year-old has kept six clean sheets in the National League this term. (Photo by Jacques Feeney/Getty Images) Photo: Jacques Feeney
10. Brandon Cooper (21 y/o) - Swansea
The 21-year-old has had to bide his team for the Swans and has only made four league appearances this season. As a result, Russell Martin may be willing to loan him out to give him some valuable game time. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images) Photo: Alex Livesey
11. LUTON, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 02: Reece Burke of Luton Town is tackled by Matt Crooks of Middlesborough during the Sky Bet Championship match between Luton Town and Middlesbrough at Kenilworth Road on November 02, 2021 in Luton, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
Despite moving from Hull to Luton in the summer, Burke has struggled to adapt to the rigours of the Championship. As a result he's only made nine appearances in all competitions this season and could be seeking game time during the second half of the campaign. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images) Photo: Alex Pantling
12. Alfie Jones (24 y/o) - Hull City
The 24-year-old was an ever-present for Hull in League One last year, but has also struggled to adapt to Championship football. He's made only seven appearances in all competitions so far and could be eyeing a return to the third tier. (Photo by Alex Davidson/Getty Images) Photo: Alex Davidson