John Mousinho has used 30 players so far, while named 32 different ones in match-days squads, but still the Blues have struggled for consistency and that winning formula.
So who are the Fratton Park fringe players who could answer the SOS and potentially transform Pompey’s fading fortunes?
We have a look at those not currently injured, who perhaps Mousinho could call upon now – or even in January...
9. Ben Stevenson
In the same boat as Tom Lowery, having not been registered and with the club being keen to offload him before his deal expires in the summer of 2025. Started against Millwall in the Carabao Cup and then appeared as a substitute for the Championship visit of Luton, certainly not disgracing himself in either outing. However, the fact he featured four times in a League One title-winning season, consisting of one start, tells its own story. Although, injury did rule him out for the majority of the second half of the campaign. Photo: Jason Brown
10. Colby Bishop
Pompey won't put a timeframe on Colby Bishop's potential return following heart surgery, although there continue to be encouraging updates over his progress. Regardless, it will be January at the very least before he can feature for John Mousinho's side, having not been named in the Blues' 25-man Football League squad, which can be re-evaluated in the next transfer window. With 45 goals in 100 appearances, the The News/Sports Mail's Player of the Season for 2022-23 is clearly a huge miss. However, it remains to be seen how long it takes to bring him up to match speed after undergoing such a serious procedure. Photo: Gareth Copley