Kenny Jackett names strong line-up for Portsmouth opener at Stevenage

The Blues’ 2020-21 campaign begins with a Carabao Cup trip to the League Two side this afternoon.

And Jackett has gone with a host of familiar faces for the behind-closed-doors Lamex Stadium encounter.

With Ellis Harrison injured, John Marquis leads the attack, with Gareth Evans, Marcus Harness and Ronan Curtis operating behind him.

Sean Raggett, now signed permanently following his Norwich loan, partners Paul Downing in the centre of defence.

While Jackett has restored Tom Naylor to the starting line-up following his surprise omission for the play-offs against Oxford United.

Naylor, who skippers the Blues, features alongside Bryn Morris in the two holding midfield spots.

Meanwhile, Ben Close, Ryan Williams and Andy Cannon are among the substitutes.

There is also a place on the bench for local lad Alfie Stanley, who has graduated from the Academy.

Pompey: Bass, Bolton, Downing, Raggett, Brown, Morris, Naylor, Harness, Evans, Curtis, Marquis.

Subs: MacGillivray, Mnoga, Whatmough, Close, Williams, Cannon, Stanley.