The role of Pompey number nine has been carried out in legendary fashion by list of names who rightly have their names etched in the Blues hall of fame.
But, for others, the weight of the shirt has proved too heavy with the pressure of leading the line at Fratton too much.
Whether it’s been poor fortune, the timing not being right or just downright not being up to the task, there has been some striking horror signings down the years.
We’ve compiled a list of some of the worst front men to represent the club, so step into a Pompey striker circus of horrors if you dare…
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9. Theofanis Gekas
Top scorer in the Bundesliga but didn't get a look in under Tony Adams and Paul Hart Photo: Steve Reid
10. Lee Mills
Another £1m flop who failed to cut it, after being saddled with big expectations after being signed by Tony Pulis in 2000. Photo: The News
11. Tommy Smith
Made 22 appearances but just the single goal at Pompey and was part of the side relegated from the Premier League in 2010 Photo: Allan Hutchings
12. Eoin Doyle
Has showed he can do it elsewhere since, but it wasn't quite the same in 2017 at Fratton. Photo: Joe Pepler