John Mousinho believes Pompey cannot afford to be inflexible in their search for a new central defense.
And that will include looking at a range of different player profiles as they seek to strengthen the defense unit throughout the transfer window.
Conor Shaughnessy’s latest injury setback is almost guaranteed to spur a search for a fresh reinforcement in the middle of defence when winter player trade begins in just over five weeks. The defender has been plagued by calf ailments and is now set to miss the rest of 2024, with the most recent issue acquired up during training.
The time it will take Shaughnessy to come up to speed, combined with the return of Regan Poole and Tom McIntyre from injury, makes finding a fresh alternative in the middle of the back line a necessity. Whether it is a loan or a permanent move, there is logic in opting for a temporary agreement, given Pompey’s possible short-term troubles.
Mousinho has now expressed his thoughts on the process of bringing in a new center defense, as well as the factors to consider when looking at the type of play desired.
The Blues have stated that a new face must be able to make an instant effect on their Championship prospects, implying that expertise in the position is required. However, Mousinho explained that Pompey’s approach must be flexible, especially in a window where possible recruits may not meet every characteristic requirement.
He stated, ‘I believe it is quite tough to look at profiles of individual players and say that is the profile we absolutely want.
‘I know it sounds funny, but when looking at a centre-half’s profile, you want someone who is strong, quick, can handle the ball, and wins headers. So if you have £80 million to spend on Van Dijk, we can go and
get! ‘Sometimes it’s because there are just a limited number of players available to us on loan or permanently in January.
‘It’s about selecting good players who can help the team.
‘That may be someone who is 6ft 4in, swift, and powerful, or simply a really good defender who keeps the ball out of the net.
‘It’s much more about finding good players who can help the team than pigeonholing ourselves into distinct profiles, especially in January.
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