But the Blues make the visit to Highbury Stadium off the back of their first three points since October after their victory against Exeter on Saturday.
And it was an instant impact for new boss John Mousinho, who was unveiled just 24 hours before the 2-0 triumph at Fratton Park on the weekend.
His arrival also saw a change in formation, with Pompey deploying a 4-3-3 formation for the first time this season.
However, the new head coach won’t have any new faces to choose from, with Clark Robertson (groin), Jay Mingi (knee), Joe Rafferty (groin), Tom Lowery (hamstring) and Jayden Reid (ACL) all still absent, while Michael Morrison is putting in the final touches on his switch to Cambridge.
As Pompey look to pick up their first consecutive maximum points haul in League One since September, here’s how we believe the Blues will line-up this evening.
5. LB - Connor Ogilvie
Mr consistent returned to his best on Saturday, making a number of powerful runs from left-back. The 26-year-old was unlucky not to find the net after his venomous effort was saved by Jamal Blackman. While Denver Hume remains available, Ogilvie is likely to be the preferred option by Mousinho. Photo: Jason Brown
6. CM - Marlon Pack
Another Pack strike and another goal of the month contender for the midfielder. He excelled against Exeter and appeared to be revitalised in his new role in front of the central defenders. The 31-year-old was handed the captain’s armband on Saturday and will play a key role under Mousinho. Photo: Jason Brown
7. CM - Joe Morrell
The Welshman was given the licence to push forward more in the new formation and he was another who was able to get on the scoresheet. Pompey are finally seeing the best in Morrell following his tough start to the campaign. Photo: Jason Brown
8. CM - Ryan Tunnicliffe
The forgotten man could be one of the men who could be given a new lease of life under Mousinho. With Thompson still a distance from a complete 90 minutes and with Mingi and Lowery still out injured, the Blues have no other options in the centre of the park. Photo: Jason Brown