They no doubt played a key factor in Danny Cowley’s sacking at the start of January, with the former Blues boss unable to call upon some of his better players on a consistent basis.
And they’re still impacting the Blues now under John Mousinho’s leadership.
That made the business concluded on transfer deadline day so important, with Paddy Lane strengthening a left-wing position devoid of both Ronan Curtis and Michael Jacobs on Saturday.
Meanwhile, Di’Shon Bernard’s arrival shores up a central-defensive department that is currently without the injured Clark Robertson and Michael Morrison, who completed a move back to Cambridge in January.
Coupled with the earlier arrivals of goalkeeper Matt Macey and defender Ryley Towler, there’s the potential for Pompey to have a very different look about them over the second half of the season.
A look that could also be transformed when the Blues’ walking wounded – including long-term absentees Joe Rafferty and Tom Lowery – return to the fray.
That guarantees a totally different headache for Mousinho, who will have some tough decisions to make, not just to his starting XI but also his match-day squad.
So who can we expect to be involved and who runs the risk of being left sitting in the stands?
We take a look at what potentially lies ahead, IF the Blues ever report a clean bill of health and Mousinho sticks with a 4-3-3 formation.
13. Josh Oluwayemi - substitute 1
The young keeper can count himself unlucky to be back on the bench after stepping in immediately after Josh Griffiths' January departure. But with Pompey in a battle to save their season, Matt Macey's presence and greater experience was needed. Has already shown, though, can he can be trusted if needs be. Photo: Jason Brown
14. Di'Shon Bernard - substitute 2
Following an impressive loan stint at Championship Hull last term, the Manchester United talent won't want his time at Portsmouth to be spent on the bench. He'll be desperate to make his mark and claim that right-sided centre-back role ASAP if John Mousinho continues with four at the back. Sean Raggett will, therefore, need to be at the top of his game! Photo: Portsmouth FC
15. Joe Rafferty - substitute 3
Believe it or not, but Rafferty is yet to taste defeat in a Pompey shirt. His experience, versatility and steadying influence will be seen as vital and he'll be ready to step in if Swanson finds himself up against it in games. Photo: Jason Brown
16. Louis Thompson - substitute 4
Pompey will be stacked with midfield options if and when they have everyone fit. That means Thompson might have to make do with a place on the bench, with his ability to play a number of roles there giving him the nod over the likes of Ryan Tunnicliffe and Jay Mingi. Others might disagree, though! Photo: Jason Brown