Sean Raggett knows both dressing rooms. The former centre-back spent time at both Portsmouth and Lincoln City during his career, which gives his verdict on this weekend's Championship meeting between the two clubs a particular weight.

Speaking to BBC Radio Solent, Raggett argued that John Mousinho's side must first establish a defensive platform if they are to turn their form around after last weekend's defeat to QPR at Fratton Park. "A solid base to build off," was how he put it, and the phrase sums up a problem that has been visible in Portsmouth's recent performances.

Defensive frailty the core concern

Portsmouth have shown enough going forward to suggest the attacking talent is there. The issue, as Raggett sees it, is that the team concedes too cheaply. Until Mousinho's backline holds its shape and limits opponents to fewer clear openings, the goals his forwards score will not be enough to secure points consistently.

The QPR loss underlined that point. Pompey were beaten at home, where supporter pressure and expectation runs high, and a trip to Lincoln now arrives with little time to regroup. That sequence, a home defeat followed immediately by a road fixture, tests a squad's character as much as its quality.

What Lincoln bring to the contest

Lincoln City have made Sincil Bank a difficult venue this season, and the Imps will regard this fixture as a genuine opportunity to claim three points against a side still searching for its best form. Raggett's familiarity with the club means he understands what Lincoln can offer: a disciplined, organised shape that punishes teams who switch off at the back.

For Portsmouth, that means the defensive solidity Raggett calls for is not simply a nice-to-have for this fixture. It is the minimum requirement. A team that gives Lincoln easy routes into the box will find itself punished.

Mousinho's task before kick-off

Mousinho has already confirmed publicly that no new signings will arrive before the Lincoln trip, so the head coach must work with the players currently at his disposal. That places the emphasis firmly on organisation and shape rather than personnel changes.

Raggett's analysis points to a straightforward prescription: get the defensive unit right first, then allow the attacking players the freedom and security to express themselves. It is a philosophy Mousinho himself has spoken about when discussing what he expects from his side in the Championship, and Raggett's outside perspective reinforces the message.

A fixture with meaning for both clubs

Beyond the tactical detail, this is a match that carries real significance in the second tier. Both Portsmouth and Lincoln need points. The Championship table rewards consistency above all else, and whichever side produces the more disciplined defensive display across ninety minutes is likely to take the three points.

Raggett, who understands the demands placed on defenders in this division, believes the answer for Portsmouth is clear. Shore up the backline, give the team something to hold onto, and build from there. Whether Mousinho's squad delivers on that brief at Sincil Bank remains to be seen, but the former defender's framing of the challenge is difficult to argue with.

Kick-off this weekend will see two Championship sides with contrasting recent form attempt to impose their respective styles. For Portsmouth, the first priority, according to a man who played for both clubs, is to make sure the foundations do not crumble before anything else can be constructed.

Frequently asked

When do Portsmouth play Lincoln City in the Championship?
The two clubs meet this weekend in a Championship fixture, with Portsmouth travelling to Sincil Bank to face Lincoln City.
What has Sean Raggett said about Portsmouth's chances against Lincoln?
Former defender Sean Raggett, who played for both clubs, says Portsmouth must establish a solid defensive base before they can hope to improve their form and pick up points against Lincoln City.
Will Portsmouth sign anyone before the Lincoln City game?
Head coach John Mousinho has confirmed that no new signings will arrive at Portsmouth before the trip to Lincoln City, meaning he must rely on his current squad for the fixture.