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It’s time for the big one as Pompey face Southampton this lunchtime.
The three-week international has drawn to a close and the Blues are straight back in the action and face bitter rivals Southampton in the first south-coast derby of the campaign.
John Mousinho’s troops will be looking to continue their 22-year unbeaten run at St Mary’s and head into the showdown having picked up eight points from their opening seven matches of the season.
Southampton, meanwhile, will be boosted by the FA’s verdict on head coach Tonda Eckert after he escaped serious punishment for his involvement in the Spygate scandal and will be in the dugout today.
With all eyes on the mouth-watering fixture, we’ve taken a look at the early team and injury news from both camps.
5. Franco Umeh - Out
The youngster has yet to feature for the Blues this season after tearing his hamstring in pre-season. Mousinho is hopeful of having Umeh back in the fold next month. | Graham Hunt/ProSportsImages
6. Thomas Waddingham - Out
Waddingham underwent ankle surgery in August after suffering a frustrating injury on the opening day against West Ham. | Jason Brown
7. Daniel Peretz - Doubt
Like Larin, Peretz was forced to withdraw from international duty because of injury. The keeper picked up a minor calf problem with Israel but has recovered and is anticipated to start between the sticks against Pompey. | Getty Images
8. Mark Kosznovszky - Out
Kosznovszky has been sidelined since December 2025 after sustaining a serious knee injury against Charlton. Pompey are expecting the midfielder to complete his comeback in the new year. | None