Regardless, John Mousinho’s men triumphed 1-0 to stretch their unbeaten run to 12 matches and put themselves nine points clear of third place in the automatic promotion spots.
Whether through illness or injury, the Blues continue to battle through an ever-lengthening list of absentees, yet remarkably keep driving towards the Championship.
So here are the 14 players missing from Saturday’s London Road victory – which doesn’t include Christian Saydee, who collected a hamstring issue during the match.
9. Paddy Lane - Illness
A sickness bug forced his withdrawal from the side to face Peterborough and he remained at home for Pompey's 1-0 victory on Saturday. Picture: Jason Brown/ProSportsImages Photo: Jason Brown
10. Joe Morrell - Knee
A piece of cartilage broke off inside his left knee, forcing the Wales international off in the 34th minute at Oxford United on February 7. Requiring surgery and still on crutches, he is expected to be back for pre-season. Photo: Jason Brown
11. Ben Stevenson - Knee
Sustained lateral collateral ligament damage to his knee during training on January 4. Returned to training on Wednesday last week and building himself up to be considered for playing duty. Photo: Jason Brown
12. Anthony Scully - Ankle
Took a knock in training on March 6. Described by John Mousinho as a 'minor injury', he is expected to return by the middle of this week. Picture: Jason Brown Photo: Jason Brown