Portsmouth face Bolton Wanderers on Saturday, knowing that a win will secure promotion and the League One title.
Derby County’s 0-0 draw with Wycombe Wanderers on Wednesday means the Blues have been gifted a chance to seal the title at the Toughsheet Stadium.
The intrigue doesn’t stop with Pompey. Ian Evatt’s side now have their destiny in their own hands and know that four victories will secure their place in the Championship next season.
With several storylines at play, John Mousinho will be desperate for his side to remain focused on the task at hand. Pompey only have themselves to consider between now and the end of the season. Three points from the Blues’ final four matches will see Mousinho’s side cap a memorable campaign.
Here’s how Portsmouth could line up against Bolton Wanderers on Saturday
Portsmouth FC News envisages Mousinho making two changes to the team that beat Shrewsbury 3-1 last time out.
The first alteration should come at the top end of the pitch. Kusini Yengi started alongside Colby Bishop against Paul Hurst’s side, and sadly, things didn’t quite click.
Of course, the partnership is still in its fledgling stages, but considering the magnitude of the game on Saturday, tried and tested methods are required. With Yengi slightly “off the pace” against the Shrews, Christian Saydee should come back into the starting XI.
The 21-year-old’s physicality is precisely what’s required on Saturday, and he appears to have struck up an excellent partnership with Bishop in recent weeks.
Abu Kamara and Paddy Lane should retain their places, with Callum Lang unlikely to feature.
Owen Moxon should retain his place alongside Marlon Pack. The midfield duo appear to complement each other well. Lee Evans has impressed but the former Ipswich Town man offers something very similar to Pack. Mousinho needs someone to break lines and take a risk; Moxon is precisely that.
One further change could occur in defence, with Joe Rafferty replacing Zak Swanson. The former Arsenal loanee has been impressive of late, but considering Rafferty was rested last week, a return to the starting XI cannot be ruled out.
Sean Raggett, Conor Shaughnessy and Connor Ogilvie will make up the rest of Pompey’s defence in front of Will Norris in goal.