Since then a much-changed Blues side booked their place in the last eight of the Papa John’s Trophy with a 3-0 win against Stevenage at Fratton Park on Tuesday night.
However, did those fringe players who stepped in do enough to convince Danny Cowley that they deserve the chance to start in League One?
Here’s our answer to that question, with our decision also taking into account Zak Swanson’s chances of playing against the managerless Dons.
The right-back returned to training on the grass on Thursday, but will it be enough to have him return to the Pompey starting XI and Cowley revert back to a 4-4-2 formation?
5. Owen Dale - right-wing-back
Operating at right-wing-back isn't ideal for the on-loan Blackpool man - but needs must at present with Swanson, Joe Rafferty and Kieron Freeman not fit for selection. That shouldn't stop Dale being a real pest down the right flank for Pompey on home soil. Just needs some goals and assists to back up the talent he possesses. Photo: Jason Brown
6. Marlon Pack - central midfield 1
It's fair to say Pack's recent influence hasn't been at the heights we were all in awe of at the start of the season. He's still a key player in that central midfield area - but competition for places is beginning to heat up again with Joe Morrell back, and Louis Thompson and Tom Lowery closing in on returns following injury. Photo: Jason Brown
7. Joe Morrell- central midfield 2
This could prove to be one of the toughest calls Danny Cowley has to make - especially after Jay Mingi opened his goal account for the Blues so stylishly against Stevenage in midweek. The youngster has really upped his game in recent months, showing rivals what he's capable of. There's a very good argument that he continues in the starting XI, with the experienced Morrell having to make do with a place on the bench. However, now might be a good time to rest him and let Morrell use his World Cup experience to good use. Photo: Jason Brown
8. Denver Hume - left-wing-back
Showed on Tuesday night what a threat he can be down the left when he's at full throttle. Pompey need consistence performances on the left flank, with Josh Koroma often struggling there and Ronan Curtis doing no better. Now it's time for Hume to step up to the plate and remind fans why the manager paid a fee for him last January. Photo: Jason Brown