The Blues have now entered a hugely important January transfer window, one which will dictate whether they successfully fight against the drop for consecutive seasons.
And here are our Blues player ratings for the campaign so far…
17. Luke Le Roux - 4.5
(9 games, 0 goals) Was highlighted by Mousinho as one of the few positives from his debut in the Carabao Cup upset the hands of Reading, yet since September has dropped well out of first-team contention. Has featured three times in Pompey’s last 17 games - and taken off at half-time in two of them. Recently returned to the squad, but purely as default through so many injuries. The signing hasn’t worked and it could also cost the South African midfielder the chance to play in the World Cup finals. Photo: Graham Hunt
18. Mark Kosznovszky - 6
(16 games 0 goals) The Hungarian has taken a while to find a way into Mousinho’s side, even being asked to play on the right wing on two occasions. Neat, tidy, hard-working, technically good, yet has still to truly dictate matches from the centre of midfield and needs to improve his attacking outing. An okay start to life at Fratton Park, although it is feared the knee injury sustained against Charlton could be season-ending. Photo: Simon Roe
19. John Swift - 5.5
(18 games, 1 goal) Warmly-received transfer, yet Swift’s Pompey career just hasn’t got going yet. Blues have struggled to accommodate the former Chelsea man in their starting line-up, playing him out of position as a six for the opening six matches. Has since operated as a 10, which doesn’t suit Mousinho’s pressing demands. Offers creativity and a touch of class on the ball, yet can be careless, like against Blackburn. Photo: Graham Hunt
20. Minhyeok Yang - 6
(17 games, 3 goals) His time at Pompey appeared ready for lift off in October after scoring in successive games against Watford and Middlesbrough, followed by an assist at Leicester. Then the Spurs loanee disappeared, perhaps coinciding with Murphy’s return to the left flank following injury. Yang has since been tried and came up with that wonderful moment against Charlton, which will live long in the memory. Yet for the flashes and clearly excellent striking technique, there has been nothing to suggest he is ready for the Premier League or Real Madrid. Photo: Graham Hunt