Portsmouth predicted XI and bench v Derby County: 3 changes made as John Mousinho faces tough calls

Published 19th Dec 2025, 11:00 BST

Pompey’s festive action gets underway against Derby County on Saturday. Here’s how we think the Blues could lineup.

Pompey begin a difficult run of games on Saturday, with the trip to Derby County the beginning of four games in 12 days for the Blues.

John Mousinho’s men will be aiming to pick up successive Championship victories for the first time this season following last weekend’s triumph over Blackburn Rovers.

Standing in their way of maximum points is John Eustace’s side, who currently sit 12th in the standings after Monday’s 3-0 win over Sheffield Wednesday.

With the congested festive period set to get underway, here’s how we think Pompey could lineup at Pride Park on Saturday.

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Here's how we think Pompey could line-up against Derby County on Saturday.

1. Pompey predicted XI & bench v Derby County

Here's how we think Pompey could line-up against Derby County on Saturday. | Graham Hunt/ProSportsImages

Mousinho’s number one and will retain his spot between the sticks for the Blues.

2. GK: Nicolas Schmid

Mousinho’s number one and will retain his spot between the sticks for the Blues. | Paul Phelan/ProSportsImages

Devlin’s performances at right-back are getting better and better as the weeks go on. Another formidable display last week against Blackburn and looks to have sealed his spot on the right side of defence.

3. RB: Terry Devlin

Devlin’s performances at right-back are getting better and better as the weeks go on. Another formidable display last week against Blackburn and looks to have sealed his spot on the right side of defence. | Paul Phelan/ProSportsImages

The Pompey boss branded the Aussie’s display in the triumph over Blackburn as ‘outstanding’ as his confidence grows at Fratton. Mousinho does have a big headache at the heart of defence, with the returning Regan Poole back in the frame. With the Welshman’s ability to play as a left-sided centre-back, it could see Matthews retain his spot in the backline.

4. CB: Hayden Matthews

The Pompey boss branded the Aussie’s display in the triumph over Blackburn as ‘outstanding’ as his confidence grows at Fratton. Mousinho does have a big headache at the heart of defence, with the returning Regan Poole back in the frame. With the Welshman’s ability to play as a left-sided centre-back, it could see Matthews retain his spot in the backline. | Graham Hunt/ProSportsImages

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