One Portsmouth player could make his first league start in over 90 days as the League One Champions take on Wigan Athletic at Fratton Park.
John Mousinho’s side wrapped up the title on Tuesday night thanks to a dramatic 3-2 win over playoff-chasing Barnsley.
Conor Shaughnessy was the history maker, as the Irishman rose highest to thump home a 90th-minute header and send Fratton Park into complete delirium.
Quite frankly, Pompey’s season deserved to end in such fashion. Mousinho’s side have been immense from start to finish.
Furthermore, the fanbase at PO4 also deserved such a memorable night. Many have followed the south coast club through the doldrums of the EFL; the return to the Championship feels all the sweeter.
Up next for Portsmouth is a Fratton Park fixture against Wigan Athletic.
Portsmouth player could be set for rare start against Wigan Athletic
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Mousinho’s side will lift the title on Saturday in front of a packed-out Fratton Park.
The fixture against Shaun Maloney’s side is by no means a dead rubber. Pompey still have the chance to break their all-time league points tally, should two more wins be amassed.
Nevertheless, considering the celebrations and fatigue, changes could be afoot come 2 pm on Saturday afternoon.
One alteration could come in defence, with Ryley Towler coming in for either Sean Raggett or Shaughnessy.
Towler’s last outing came in the 1-0 win over Fleetwood Town in January. It’s been a frustrating season for the promising 21-year-old and he’s probably deserving of a run out.
Important couple of weeks for Portsmouth youngster Ryley Towler
The upcoming fixtures against Lincoln and Wigan could prove crucial for Towler. He displayed glimpses of his ability last season but has had to make do with a place on the bench behind Pompey’s ever-present defensive duo.
If he can impress over the next two weeks, there’s every chance of the former Bristol City youngster staying put at Fratton Park for the start of the Blues’ Championship adventure.
Failure to stake a claim could make a loan move possible, particularly with Regan Poole returning from his long ACL layoff in pre-season.