It might only have been for some fitness tests ahead of Monday’s return for pre-season training proper, but it was probably the first time John Mousinho had been with his entire first-team group since the end of April.
He’ll have been keen to see how his League One title-winners looked on their return to duty as preparations begin in earnest for the forthcoming Championship return. The head coach will also have been eager to integrate his new signings into the group as smoothly as possible, with three new arrivals coming through the door this week alone - Josh Murphy, Reuben Swann and Jordan Archer.
With four signings in total so far this summer - including Jordan Williams - there’s more to be down on that front before the season-opener against Leeds United on August 10. That tough test is still six weeks away, but what is the Blues’ strongest XI and bench at this current moment in time, without Joe Morrell and Zak Swanson, too, as their contracts prepare to expire on Monday?
This is what we came up with. Let us know if you agree or disagree.
13. Substitute 2 - Terry Devlin
A player John Mousinho absolutely adores, his versatility and willingness to go into battle - no matter the circumstances - will be vital to Pompey next season. | National World
14. Substitute 3 - Tom McIntyre
The January signing from Reading has fully recovered from the fractured ankle he suffered on his debut. Gets the nod to be among the bench over Ryley Towler - but only just! Photo: Portsmouth FC
15. Substitute 4 -Jack Sparkes
The former Exeter man will be tasked once again to put pressure on Connor Ogilvie for that left-back spot on his return to pre-season. | National World
16. Substitute 5 - Owen Moxon
The former Carlisle man steadily soaked up to pressure of lining up for Pompey in a title race last season. John Mousinho will be keen to see how he evolves further in his first pre-season at the club. Photo: Jason Brown