Pompey travel to Exeter tonight in League One looking for their first win over the festive period.
A disappointing home draw against Fleetwood was followed up by a rare defeat at the hands of Bristol Rovers as the Blues’ seven-point lead at the top of the table was cut to two in a matter of days.
Heading to fifth-from-bottom Exeter – whose 1-0 win against Wycombe on Boxing Day was their first in 13 third-tier games – head coach John Mousinho spoke about the need to freshen up his team selection for the trip to St James Park. But accompanied by the need to strike the right balance and a refusal to panic after two forgettable results, how will that translate into tonight’s starting XI for the game against the Grecians?
Well, here’s how we think the Blues will line up as they look to defend their lead at League One’s summit.
5. Centre-back 2 - Conor Shaughnessy
What a signing the former Burton man is proving to be. Was Pompey's man-of-the-match against Bristol Rovers as he showed his capabilities at both ends of the pitch at the Memorial Stadium. | National World Photo: Jason Brown
6. Left-back - Jack Sparkes
The left-back wasn't the Jack Sparkes we've come to admire this season during the defeat at Bristol Rovers. He's one who could perhaps do with a rest after starting each of Pompey's past eight league games. That's tough, though, as the Blues wait on Connor Ogilvie's return. Meanwhile, no doubt, he'll be up for his first trip pack to St James Park following his summer departure. | National World Photo: Jason Brown
7. Central midfield 1 - Marlon Pack
Pompey's on-the-pitch leader will be vital tonight as the Blues look to secure their first win of the festive fixtures. | National World Photo: Jason Brown
8. Central-midfield 2 - Joe Morrell
Another consistent Blues performer, whose tedancy to pick up bookings often overshadows his work-rate and importance to the team. | National World Photo: Jason Brown