Blues head coach John Mousinho wants to use the quarter-final tie to get competitive minutes into the legs of his fringe players and those who have just returned from injury.
And with players’ futures very much in focus as we approach the end of the season, the game will give the Pompey boss the additional chance to rule his eye on those whose how have had insufficient game time to make an impression during his two months at Fratton Park.
Here’s how we think the Blues could line up in a 4-3-3 formation at the Vitality Stadium tonight (7pm), with youngsters Josh Dockerill, Adam Payce, Harvey Laidlaw, Brian Quarm and Koby Mottoh expected to be on the bench.
9. Harry Jewitt-White - midfield 3
The 18-year-old made his league debut for the Blues in John Mousinho's third game in charge at Peterborough. But since that five-minute run out, the former Pompey Academy youngster has not been involved in any first-team match-day squad. Photo: Jason Brown
10. Adam Payce - right-wing
The promising 18-year-old scored twice against Andover New Street in an earlier round of the Hampshire Senior Cup and also featured in the 5-2 win against Southampton. Will likely get another chance to shine against Bournemouth tonight. Was on the bench for Pompey's FA Cup third-round defeat at Spurs back in January. Photo: Jason Brown
11. Joe Pigott - centre-forward
The centre-forward is currently serving a three-match ban following his sending off against Accrington. The suspension only covers senior games, so the n-loan Ipswich man will likely be involved in tonight's county cup match to keep his match fitness up. Photo: Simon Davies
12. Michael Jacobs - left-wing
The former Wigan man has been on the fringes of John Mousinho's starting XI in recent games, having to make do with substitute appearances over the past four games. Hasn't started a game since the 1-0 win at Cambridge on March 4. Is out of contract at the end of the season. Photo: Jason Brown