Regan Poole before Millwall match has urged Portsmouth to utilise the international break to refocus their Championship campaign following a challenging run of form.
The Blues defender believes the recent fortnight provided crucial time for reflection after a winless streak extended to six matches with defeat at Hull City.
Supporters will be hoping for improved fortunes when Millwall visit Fratton Park on Saturday, with Pompey looking to move away from the relegation zone.
Poole acknowledged the importance of quickly rediscovering their earlier season form to escape the danger area.
The centre-half explained: “Ideally you’d enter these breaks following a victory, but the timing actually worked in our favour.
“It allowed us to clear our heads and concentrate on getting back on track after a difficult spell.
“We enjoyed a brief rest before having the chance to reset properly. Until the Birmingham fixture, our defensive record had been strong, but conceding seven goals across two away matches—despite keeping a clean sheet against Wrexham at home—simply isn’t acceptable.
“We must address this immediately and return to our previous standards, both individually and collectively. We’re far from where we need to be, but we’ve drawn a line under recent results and it’s time to move forward.
Mousinho: Hard Work Will End Winless Run Before Millwall
“Having several players return to training has been encouraging and strengthens the squad considerably.
“Millwall always provide stern opposition with their physical, direct approach, so we need to impose ourselves and play our football.”
With Connor Ogilvie and Jacob Farrell unavailable, selection decisions await regarding the left-back position.
Poole added: “I’ve deputised there previously, though I’d rather avoid it again! That’s football though—you adapt to whatever’s required.
“Our injury situation this season has been particularly unfortunate, and this scenario exemplifies our current predicament.”
