The Blues head coach surprised many by naming Zak Swanson and Connor Ogilvie in his starting XI against Cambridge in midweek – despite the recent good form of Joe Rafferty and Jack Sparkes.
He also included Christian Saydee in his line up as Pompey look to avoid burn-out within their ranks, with the end result being a goalless draw at the Abbey Stadium.
Whether or not he choses to do so again at the Royals remains to be seen. With Ogilvie back on the sidelines with an ankle injury, joining Marlon Pack, Tom Lowery and Anthony Scully in the treatment room, there’ll be less scope to do so.
But with the previously ill Gavin Whyte and Sean Raggett back in contention, there’s still the possibility!
So with that in mind, how do we think the Blues will line up against a Reading side currently sat second-from-bottom in the League One table?
Well, here’s what we’ve come up with.
13. Sub 1: Ryan Schofield
The keeper maintains his place as back-up to Will Norris. Photo: Jason Brown
14. Sub 2: Sean Raggett
Should return to the squad following a sickness bug that made him miss the trip to Cambridge. Will have to make do with a familiar place on the bench, though. Photo: Jason Brown
15. Sub 3: Terry Devlin
The young Ulsterman hasn't featured in the league since his sub appearance against Port Vale on October 7. He didn't even make the bench in midweek, but suspect he'll be back for the visit to the Royals. Photo: Jason Brown
16. Sub 4: Paddy Lane
The former Fleetwood man has been in excellent form for Pompey this season, but you suspect he might be one in need of a chance to recharge the batteries. Photo: Jason Brown