Early team news: Haunstrup and Whatmough in contention for Pompey

The players involved in Tuesday night's defeat to Blackburn came through unscathed, giving manager Kenny Jackett ample options to help kick-start the Blues' play-off push at Roots Hall.

The Pompey boss may, in fact, have something of a selection headache,

Jack Whatmough and Brandon Haunstrup both came through an in-house game this morning and are in contention for Saturday's match-day squad.

For Southend, Michael Kightly looks set to miss the clash after limping out of the Shrimpers' draw at Bury on Tuesday with a hamstring injury.

Rob Kiernan (knee) and John White (ankle) are definitely out for the visit of the Blues, likewise substitute keeper Ted Smith, (shoulder) and Anthony Wordsworth (calf).

However, Chris Powell could welcome back winger Josh Wright (hamstring) and loanee Sam Mantom, with both set to undergo late fitness tests.