Three Portsmouth players could now return for the Blues’ final League One clash against Lincoln City on Saturday.
After wrapping up the title last week, John Mousinho’s men are looking to end their campaign on a high note.
Saturday’s loss to Wigan Athletic means the Blues cannot beat their 98-point haul from the 2002/03 season, meaning there’s next to nothing riding on the trip to Sincil Bank.
For the hosts, the Blues’ visit is absolutely vital. Lincoln know a win will more than likely book their spot in the play-offs. A point or a loss could see Michael Skubala’s men drop out of the top six.
Pompey could certainly dampen the Imps’ Championship aspirations.
Portsmouth injury latest ahead of Lincoln City clash
The Blues have been boosted by the return of three players ahead of the final-day fixture.
BBC Sport Solent’s Andrew Moon revealed that Tom Lowery, Ben Stevenson and Terry Devlin could play on Saturday.
“Pompey head coach John Mousinho says Tom Lowery, Ben Stevenson and Terry Devlin all trained today and could play on Saturday at Lincoln,” he said.
John Mousinho must play strong Portsmouth team against Lincoln City on Saturday
Mousinho must play a strong side on Saturday out of respect for the league. There’s still plenty to be sorted regarding the top six race, and considering Barnsley, Oxford United, and Blackpool have all had to face Portsmouth at their best, it would be unfair on Lincoln’s play-off rivals.
Furthermore, the Pompey boss may be eager to do his old club a favour. The 37-year-old was appointed after holding a coaching role at the Kassam Stadium.
The Pompey boss has also insisted he intends to ensure integrity is maintained. “We had a reintroduction day on Tuesday because I think the boys were physically drained and probably mentally drained,” he said.
“But it’s important we don’t completely take our foot off the gas because of the integrity of the league, and there are teams with points to play for.
“It was a pretty good thing Wigan were safe and had nothing to play for last weekend and we’re safe in terms of our position. This weekend is different, though, because plenty of sides are looking for that final play-off position with Lincoln moving into sixth.”