‘Not the Right Game’ – Pompey manager defends controversial Caballero decision

Gustavo Caballero remained on the bench throughout Saturday’s 1-0 defeat to Sheffield United, with John Mousinho adamant the occasion was not suited to handing the Paraguayan his home debut.

The Pompey head coach also defended his other in-game decisions, explaining why John Swift was replaced by Marlon Pack and why Andre Dozzell was not taken off immediately despite struggling with an ankle issue.

Andre Brooks struck in the 90th minute to snatch victory for the Blades at Fratton Park, breaking Portsmouth hearts in a contest the hosts arguably should have wrapped up earlier given the volume of chances they created.

Mousinho faced criticism from sections of the home support, particularly over his substitutions after the 71st minute. Although he made four changes, Caballero who recently joined on loan from Santos was not among those introduced.

The winger had made an 11-minute appearance at Preston the previous week, but Mousinho felt this fixture demanded a different approach.

He explained that while Caballero performed well at Preston when Pompey were chasing the game, tighter and more finely balanced matches carry greater risk for a player still adjusting to the pace and intensity of the Championship.

Mousinho believed his side were already on top following the changes he made and felt there was no need to alter the momentum.

He even noted that Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder had indicated his side would have been satisfied with a point at that stage, reinforcing his view that Pompey were in the ascendancy.

Swift, meanwhile, was making his first start since New Year’s Day after stepping into the number 10 role in place of the injured Conor Chaplin. The 30-year-old impressed in his preferred advanced position, having often operated deeper since arriving at Fratton Park last July.

However, Mousinho opted to replace him with Pack in the 71st minute, pushing Ebou Adams further forward in an attempt to regain control as the game became increasingly open.

With Adrian Segecic sidelined by a dead leg and Dozzell set to miss the midweek trip to Charlton due to his ankle problem, Mousinho said the decision to withdraw Swift was also influenced by match fitness considerations, acknowledging it was his first start in some time and expressing satisfaction that he managed 71 minutes.