Following a transfer window that saw five new players arrive and just one depart, it's fair to say the Pompey first-team squad is bursting with talent and options.
That will be of huge comfort to head coach John Mousinho and the Fratton faitfhul as all parties focus on a return to the Championship. It's also reassuring given the season-ending injuries suffered by Regan Poole and Alex Robertson, along with the treatment Zak Swanson and Tino Anjorin continue to receive as they await their comebacks.
But with competition for places ramped up by the arrivals of Matt Macey, Myles Peart-Harris, Callum Lang, Tom McIntyre and Owen Moxon, how does Mousinho fit them all in? What does the Blues' strongest starting XI look like (minus Poole and Robertson)? And who faces the disappointment of having to make do with a place on the bench? Although, that's a more preferable option than missing out completely, with potentially 10 players having to find a seat in the stand as their team-mates take to the field of play.
A massive selection headache awaits Mousinho over the coming months. It's a problem all managers/head coaches crave - but this one looks particularly tough. As a result, here's what we believe is Pomey's strongest XI and bench - and who might have to try to keep warm in the stands, for the time being at least!
Note: Ben Stevenson, Zak Swanson and Tino Anjorin included as their injuries are not considered long-term ones. Joe Morrell also included as club await news on knee injury picked up against Oxford in midweek.
5. Left-back: Connor Ogilvie
Has stepped back into the Pompey starting XI with ease despite long injury absence. Jack Sparkes was a decent deputy and impressed at left-back. But Ogilvie gets the nod. | Jason Brown/ProSportsImages
6. Centre-midfield 1: Marlon Pack
The Pompey Academy graduate has still got it and remains key, despite Tom Lowery's return from injury and Owen Moxon's deadline day arrival. Photo: Jason Brown
7. Centre-midfield 2: Joe Morrell
The midfielder splits opinions among sections of the Fratton faithful, especially as he has a penchant for the odd card and ill-timed tackle. Tom Lowery's strong comeback from injury and Owen Moxon's arrival certainly ups the pressure. But Morrell retains his place, although he could be out for a few weeks with an injury picked up against Oxford. | Jason Brown/ProSportsImages
8. Right-wing: Abu Kamara
The on-loan winger's quality is hard to miss. It's obvious why he's attracting attention form higher up the football ladder. Does have his off day, but is well clear of Gavin Whyte and Anthony Scully in the pecking order. Photo: Jason Brown