The Blues have picked up four points in their opening three matches of the season and return to Fratton Park after last weekend’s 1-1 draw against West Brom.
Meanwhile, Preston make the long trip to PO4 looking to continue their unbeaten start, which included impressive wins against Leicester City and Ipswich Town.
We’ve taken a look at the early team and injury news from both camps ahead of this afternoon’s contest.
5. Milutin Osmajic - Doubt
Osmajic has netted in all three Championship matches so far this term for PNE but remains a doubt for the trip to Fratton Park. The striker was withdrawn after just 10 minutes on the pitch against Wrexham in midweek, with Heckingbottom explaining the Montenegro international has a rib issue. | Getty Images
6. Abdoulaye Kamara - Out
The midfielder is out of contention and will be looking to secure a move away from Fratton Park before Monday’s deadline. | Jason Brown/ProSportsImages
7. Brad Potts - Out
Potts remains unavailable for Heckingbottom after sustaining a hamstring injury in the later stages of pre-season. He has yet to feature this term. | Getty Images
8. Marlon Pack - Out
Pompey’s skipper continues to be sidelined having sustained a knee injury in the build-up to the opening day fixture against Oxford United. Pack was originally expected to be out for 4-6 weeks with the issue. | National World