‘Anyone who watched’: EFL expert delivers concerning Portsmouth verdict ahead of ‘huge’ showdown

Pompey’s ‘huge’ trip to QPR has been branded as a must win as the fight for survival intensifies.

That’s the clear verdict of George Elek from the reputed Not The Top 20 Podcast, who has expressed his concern over the Blues’ ‘chaotic’ performances in recent weeks.

John Mousinho’s men are looking to go into the final international break on a high, with Saturday’s game against the R’s kick-starting a two-week stoppage before the all-important run-in.

Pompey are in the midst of a concern run of form, which has seen them pick up just one point from their previous five matches.

‘Chaotic’ Pompey’s frustrating run of form

Following defeats to Wrexham, Hull City, Swansea City and Derby County, along with a disappointing draw against relegation rivals Blackburn Rovers, the pressure is once again back on the Blues.

Despite controlling proceedings against the Rams on Monday, Mousinho’s troops were unable to properly test Richard O’Donnell as their frustrations in front of goal were made clear once again.

It continues a concerning trend, with his side amassing 81 shots across the previous five matches, but have scored just three during that time.

One point now separates Mousinho’s 20th-placed outfit and the drop zone , with nine games to seal their Championship status following their defeat to play-off chasing Derby last-time out.

Standing in their way of a crucial three points are a QPR side who have lost five of their previous seven matches, but did secure a 3-1 win over Leicester City last weekend.

The R’s sit 16th in the standings on 50 points, but aren’t fully away from danger according to head coach Julien Stephan, who has earmarked the 52-point mark as the target to stay up.

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EFL experts delivers Pompey verdict ahead of QPR showdown

And Elek believes Saturday’s game in west London will be ‘pretty end-to-end’ as ‘chaotic’ Pompey look to take a step closer to survival.

Speaking on the latest NTT20 episode, he said: ‘QPR v Pompey is 10/11 with Sky Bet. Seems a huge price to me. QPR have been a friend of this bet all season.

‘Still always priced up as if they're the low goal expectancy, despite Julien Stephan having a pretty attacking mindset when it comes to games.

‘Their form dropped off remarkably, but then they had that 3-1 win against Leicester last time out, which is a bit of a return to some good attacking performances.

‘Obviously, a huge game for Pompey where I would say a point doesn't really do them any favours at all.

‘Anyone who watched the Derby game yes it was a 1-0 game, but they saw the chaotic nature of Pompey's current performances. I think this should be pretty end-to-end.’

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