Since Tuesday’s trip to the Trotters, the Blues have said goodbye to on-loan duo Josh Griffiths and Josh Koroma, who have returned to West Brom and Huddersfield respectively.
Both started the Papa John’s Trophy defeat to Ian Evatt’s side, as did Marlon Pack, who will be another noticeable absentee from today’s game because of suspension.
That means another reshuffling of the pack is in order as Pompey go in search of their first league win in 10 games.
The good news, though, is Clark Robertson should be available for a recall following a groin injury, new-boy Ryley Towler is in contention following his move from Bristol City, while Owen Dale returns following a ban.
Josh Oluwayemi will be given his league debut in goal after the Blues were unable to sign a new goalkeeper ahead of the fixture.
Jay Mingi (knee), Tom Lowery (hamstring) and Joe Rafferty (groin) remain out, with the latter two expected to be unavailable for a further 2-4 weeks.
With all that said, what can we expect from the Blues today in terms of a starting XI?
Here’s how we think the Blues will line up...
5. Clark Robertson - centre-back 3
The skipper will likely return following recovery from a groin injury - but you wonder how tempted Simon Bassey would be to throw new-boy Ryley Towler into the side just to introduce something new and fresh. A need to have experience in front of keeper Oluwayemi might be a key factor. Photo: Jason Brown
6. Zak Swanson - right-wing-back
Had perhaps his toughest game in a Pompey shirt against Bolton on Tuesday night - just days after his man-of-the-match performance against Spurs. Will hopefully dust that disappointment off and come out firing on return trip to the Trotters. Photo: Jason Brown
7. Joe Morrell - central midfield
The midfielder has been proving his worth again following return from the World Cup. His presence will be important today in the absence of the suspended Marlon Pack. Photo: Paul Thompson
8. Ryan Tunnicliffe - central midfield
Tunnicliffe will likely get the nod over Louis Thompson after being rested for the midweek trip to Bolton. Photo: Jason Brown