The waiting is finally over as Pompey and Southampton lock horns in the Championship this lunchtime.
The Blues host the latest south-coast derby for the first time since 2019 when the two sides met in the League Cup and the first league contest at Fratton Park since December 2011.
John Mousinho’s men go into the contest on a good run of form, having lost just one of their previous seven second-tier matches.
Meanwhile, the Saints make the short trip along the M27 off the back of a midweek triumph over Sheffield United, which represented their first victory in eight games.
It’s expected to be a cracker at PO4 this lunchtime and we’ve taken a look at the early team and injury news from both camps ahead of today’s derby.
5. Oriol Romeu - Doubt
The Spaniard has made five appearances since his return to St Mary’s in November. He was expected to return to the fray last week but picked up a minor ankle issue. | Getty Images
6. Hayden Matthews - Out
The Aussie was on a good run of form in the team prior to a set-back against Bristol City on New Year's Day. Matthews sustained an ankle issue late in the defeat and is set for a significant period out of action. | Graham Hunt/ProSportsImages
7. Josh Knight - Out
The centre-back was last seen in November and is currently sidelined due to a stress fracture in his back. Photo: Graham Hunt
8. Marlon Pack - Doubt
The skipper and boyhood Blues fan is expected to return to the fray this lunchtime after dealing with a slight hamstring problem. Mousinho confirmed Pack is likely to be the only returning figure from his lengthy injury list for the contest. | Graham Hunt