Arsenal come to town this Sunday, as Pompey aim to spring a big FA Cup upset at PO4.
John Mousinho has to contend with his own issues, as he deals with an injury crisis which currently sees 10 players sidelined.
But the Gunners are managing a hectic fixture schedule, which sees them play five games in just 12 days -starting against champions Liverpool on Thursday.
That means the likelihood is a Mikel Arteta will shuffle his pack for the third-round clash - so we’ve taken a look at some of the names that potentially brings to the fore.
9. Kepa Arrizabalaga
Arteta has turned to the former Chelsea and Bournemouth keeper over first-choice David Raya in all their Carabao Cup games, with a similar outcome a distinct FA Cup possibility. | Arsenal FC via Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
10. Gabriel Jesus
Returned last month after 332 days out after rupturing his ACL knee ligament, the Brazil international has been coming off the bench in the league, but started in the Carabao Cup against Crystal Palace. Could it be a repeat against Pompey? | Getty Images
11. Kai Havertz
Striker is having his return from four months out with a knee injury managed, so could well be limited involvement for the German against John Mousinho's side. | Arsenal FC via Getty Images
12. Mikel Merino
The Spaniard has been a Carabao Cup starter and captain for Arsenal this season, pointing to a significant involvement either in midfield or up front at PO4. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images