Portsmouth boss delivers revealing insight into how goalkeeping battle now stands ahead of Sheffield United and Norwich City clashes
The latest on the fight between Daniel Bielica and Nico Schmid to start in goal for Pompey.
Nico Schmid’s attitude has been praised after he returned to Pompey goalkeeping duties.
And Blues boss John Mousinho acknowledged chopping and changing between the sticks is likely not a selection option for him moving forward in the Championship this season.
Mousinho on keeper battle: ‘A department where you don’t treat it like outfield players’
Schmid was restored for the south-coast derby loss at Southampton on Sunday, after Daniel Bielica had been favoured for the previous four games.
The Austrian responded with a standout showing, making two excellent saves to deny Cyle Larin and Leo Scienza in each half at St Mary’s Stadium.
Mousinho explained there’s been no agitating from the 29-year-old since being usurped by Bielica, with the Pompey boss impressed with his attitude.
He said: ‘Nico came back in and I thought he was very good, he's been very good since he has been out of the side.
‘I think Dan would’ve done a good job as well, it’s just slightly different how those two play.
‘They have different skills and different attributes.
‘The Southampton game was one we thought would suit Nico.
‘Both have now been left out and both can count themselves unlucky to have lost their place in the side.
‘It’s just a case of being competitive in that area.’
Eyes are now turning to Wednesday’s meeting with Sheffield United after Sunday’s disappointment, with Schmid looking favourite to retain his spot after an impressive return.
Bielica kept two clean sheets in his four Pompey outings, but also had some erratic moments against Derby County and Blackburn Rovers.
After dropping Schmid and reinstating the former BW Linz man, Mousinho acknowledged consistency in the goalkeeping department has to be a consideration moving forward.
The Pompey boss admitted that area of the pitch does need to looked at differently outfield positions.
When asked if he believes it’s not an area where you can chop and change, Mousinho said: ‘It feels like it and it’s probably a department where you don’t treat it like outfield players.
‘I guess there’s a reason behind it, but centre-halves and goalkeepers you tend to leave a bit longer.
‘Goalkeepers in particular you often have a defined No1 and No2.
‘I like us in that position and I like the fact that Nico has dusted himself out and didn’t feel sorry for himself once he was left out.
‘Hence him coming back in for the game - and doing very well.’