John Mousinho has left the door open for a possible free-agent recruit following a fresh injury blow to Keshi Anderson.
The January arrival suffered a hamstring blow in training last week, which will keep him out of action for 6-8 weeks.
His set-back adds to a growing list of absentees on the wing for the Blues, who are already without Franco Umeh, Harvey Blair, Josh Murphy and Florian Bianchini due to injury.
There is spaces to fill - should Pompey turn to any out-of-contract players - with the Blues only filling 23 spots in their 25-man EFL squad.
If Mousinho’s side were to utilise to free-agent market during the second half of the season, these are the standout wingers who are without a club at present.
5. Scott Sinclair
Sinclair is another player in this list that can add plenty of Championship experience, having appeared for Preston North End, Plymouth Argyle and Swansea City, while also enjoying stints at Manchester City, Celtic and Aston Villa. The 36-year-old has been without a club since his exit from Bristol Rovers in the summer, but - despite his age - has netted 13 goals in the previous two campaigns. | Getty Images
6. Johann Berg Gudmundsson
Gudmundsson has more than 100 international caps for Iceland after an outstanding career in the Premier League and Championship with Charlton Athletic and Burnley. The 35-year-old predominantly operates on the right wing and has been without a club after departing Al-Dhafra in January. Following his Turf Moor exit in 2024, Gudmundsson has achieved a solid goalscoring record in both the Saudi Pro League and UAE Pro League. | Getty Images
7. Helder Costa
Costa has played key roles in two successful Championship-promotion winning campaigns with Wolves and Leeds United respectively. Since his Elland Road exit in 2022, the 32-year-old has appeared for Valencia, Al-Ittihad and most recently Estoril Praia in Portugal's top flight. The tricky customer can cause opposition defences plenty of issues with his pace and creativity. | Getty Images
8. Johnny Russell
The 14-cap Scotland international has spent the previous eight years in the MLS, where he has been a consistent performer for Sporting Kansas City. The right-winger netted 69 goals and amassed 39 assists during his time in the United States. Russell has also been a regular fixture in the Championship, having previously impressed during a five-year stay with Derby County. | Getty Images