Positive developments on the injury front – apart from Joe Rafferty’s groin problem – also gives the Blues boss the chance to welcome back some of his previous walking wounded.
But will he dare to rush the likes of Marlon Pack and Tom Lowery back when there’s an important league trip to Morecambe just around the corner?
Currently, only four of Pompey’s five loan players have been granted permission to feature in the Cup for the club this season.
That will also need to be taken into consideration.
So, with all that in mind, what can we expected the Blues’ starting XI to look like tonight?
Here’s how we think they’ll line up at Edgar Street…
5. Connor Ogilvie - left-back
No outfield Pompey player has more minutes in his legs than Ogilvie this season. That fact will remain after tonight's game, despite Denver Hume's return to fitness. Photo: Jason Brown
6. Reeco Hackett- right-wing
The attack-minded player was due to start against Shrewsbury last week, only to be struck down by a sickness bug. Got 30 minutes under his belt against the Dons on Tuesday night and could earn starting place at the expense of Owen Dale, who played 90 minutes against Wimbledon and Shrewsbury in the past seven days Photo: Simon Roe
7. Ryan Tunnicliffe - central midfield 1
Given the likely muddy conditions at Edgar Street tonight and a need to be cautious with his midfield options, Danny Cowley could well give the returning Marlon Pack and Tom Lowery more time to recover from their hamstring injuries. That could see Ryan Tunncilffe start his fifth game in a row for the Blues, with his experience in the middle of the park needed. Photo: Jason Brown
8. Jay Mingi - central midfield 2
With the World Cup round the corner, you do wonder whether this is the type of game Joe Morrell needs right now? Danny Cowley will always put Pompey's interests first - hence his decision to start the Wales international against AFC Wimbledon in midweek. But there's a big decision to make. Its a tough one - after all, Morrell does need the game time following a couple of injures this season. However, the fact that this is the type of game that would suit Jay Mingi means he could get the nod over Morrell. Photo: Jason Brown