Portsmouth winger Josh Murphy faces an extended spell on the sidelines after undergoing groin surgery. Head coach John Mousinho confirmed the 31-year-old is expected to be out for about eight weeks, as first reported by the BBC.
Murphy was forced off during the second half of Portsmouth's 3-1 Championship victory over Lincoln City on 22 August. The procedure aims to resolve a persistent issue that has troubled the player. "We've got a little bit more clarity on Josh's situation now," Mousinho said. He added, "We expect Josh to be out for about eight weeks all together we are extremely hopeful that this is going to be the end of some of the issues that he's had." The club anticipates a return to action in late October.
What does this mean for Portsmouth's squad?
The loss of Murphy is a significant blow for a Portsmouth side finding its feet in the Championship. Murphy had only recently returned to full fitness after a pre-season hampered by the same groin problem, which followed an injury-disrupted 2025-26 campaign. His absence removes a proven creative outlet from Mousinho's options. Since joining from Oxford United in the summer of 2024, Murphy has made 60 appearances for Pompey, contributing seven goals and 20 assists. His direct running and ability to deliver from wide areas will be missed as the team looks to climb from 20th in the table.
Portsmouth's start to the season has been challenging, with three points from their first four matches. They have scored five goals but conceded eight, leaving them with a minus-three goal difference. You can track the team's progress on our standings page. They currently sit seven points adrift of early leaders Swansea City.
How will Portsmouth cope without him?
Mousinho must now reconfigure his attacking plans without one of his senior wingers. The timing is far from ideal with a busy schedule of Championship fixtures on the horizon. The immediate focus shifts to Tuesday night's home game against Derby County at Fratton Park. Following that, Portsmouth host Cardiff City, who are 18th, on 5 September. Fans can view the full schedule on our fixtures list.
This injury setback tests the depth of the Portsmouth squad early in the season. Other attacking players will need to step up to fill the void left by Murphy's creativity and experience. The manager's team selection for the upcoming matches will be closely watched.
What is the longer-term outlook for Murphy?
The club and player will be hoping this surgery provides a definitive solution. Murphy's recent history with the groin issue has been frustrating, limiting his availability after a positive impact since his arrival. An eight-week timeline points to a return around the end of October, potentially missing up to ten league matches depending on cup commitments.
A successful recovery would see him return for a crucial period in the autumn. For now, his rehabilitation begins while the team navigates a critical early phase of the campaign. Supporters can monitor all player availability updates via our dedicated injuries section.
Portsmouth's next challenge is the visit of Wayne Rooney's Derby County to Fratton Park on Tuesday evening.
