Since joining Fratton Park this summer, Ben Stevenson, the Forest Green arrival, has seen minimal action, making only one appearance in League One. Despite his decent performances in the six starts he has had, the 27-year-old midfielder finds himself on the sidelines due to the success of his midfield counterparts, as acknowledged by John Mousinho.
Mousinho emphasizes that Stevenson’s lack of playing time is not a reflection of his abilities but rather a result of the strong performances of other midfielders like Marlon Pack, Joe Morrell, and Alex Robertson. Despite the challenging situation, Mousinho encourages Stevenson to stay prepared for his chance, noting that he has demonstrated his capability whenever called upon.
In a recent conversation with Stevenson, Mousinho advised him to make an impact whenever he gets the opportunity, highlighting his solid performances against Port Vale and Orient. However, the tough competition for his position has made it difficult for Stevenson to secure a regular spot in the starting lineup.
Mousinho also points out that Stevenson is not the only player facing such challenges this season, as squad rotation is a common practice by the Pompey boss. He mentions instances with other players like Sean Raggett, Zak Swanson, Joe Rafferty, and Jack Sparkes, who have performed well but faced spells on the bench due to tactical considerations and the need to adapt to specific game situations.
Ultimately, Mousinho reassures Stevenson that his contributions have not gone unnoticed, and he remains in contention for selection. The message is clear: stay ready, because opportunities will come, especially in a team that is performing well, and having a strong squad allows for strategic player selection based on the demands of each game.
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