And Saturday’s disappointing 1-1 draw against Shrewsbury once again highlighted why fingers have been pointed at the Blues squad.
The Fratton faithful have attempted to dissect why the campaign has gone so horribly wrong, with injuries, Danny Cowley, formations, tactics and budgets all focused on at some stage or another.
But one of the most glaring issues is the lack of service and creativity within the team, with Pompey failing to make the most of 23-goal striker Colby Bishop’s physical and aerial presence.
Despite his impressive goal tally, crosses into the penalty area from wide positions is still of huge concern for John Mousinho.
To highlight the issue, we’ve taken a look at the goal and assist returns of the wingers Cowley and the new Blues boss has called upon this season in League One.
The numbers provided aren’t for the faint-hearted.
5. Reeco Hackett
Hackett has appeared 32 times in the league this term, having been utilised both on the right and the left. The 25-year-old has scored two goals under the new head coach - the most out of any wingers under Mousinho to date. However, his goal tally for the season stands at just three. Meanwhile, Hackett has just one assist to his name all term. Photo: Simon Davies
6. Ronan Curtis
The Blues’ longest-serving player in the current squad was deemed not good enough by Cowley at the start of the season. Despite picking up form before his campaign-ending ACL injury, the Irishman has netted two league goals and registered just one assist in 25 League One outings this term. Photo: Jason Brown
7. Michael Jacobs
Although Jacobs had an impressive start to the season, scoring two in his opening four league games, he's managed to only double his tally to four for the campaign. Injuries have once again limited his game time to 28 appearances in League One but you'd expect him to register more than two assists in that time. Photo: Jason Brown
8. Paddy Lane
The January arrival has had a difficult start to his Pompey career, with a hamstring injury limiting his game time to 11 appearances. The 22-year-old has registered two assists for the Blues after a tough start to the season with Fleetwood. More is expected and more will be demanded next season. Photo: Graham Hunt