Bolton v Portsmouth - early team news

The former skipper was omitted for last week’s EFL Trophy win at Walsall before missing the 2-1 victory over AFC Wimbledon because of illness.

Pitman, who’s been linked with Swindon and Plymouth during the January transfer window, has now recovered and is challenging for a spot against the Trotters.

Ryan Williams is also in the frame to be involved after missing the past five games with a groin problem.

Jack Whatmough featured for 90 minutes in the reserves’ 1-1 draw at Plymouth on Tuesday following his long-term knee injury and is again likely to be on the bench.

Ross McCrorie will return to Fratton Park next week having undergone rehab for his hamstring complaint with parent-club Rangers, while Lee Brown (Achilles) remains on the treatment table.

Meanwhile, Jason Lowe is back for the League One basement side following a three-match suspension.

The midfielder received a red card against Shrewsbury last month but is set to go straight back into the Trotters’ starting line-up.

Manager Keith Hill will, however, be without Yoan Zouma after he limped out of Bolton’s 5-1 loss at Lincoln on Tuesday with a hamstring injury.

The Trotters also recently allowed senior left-backs Adam Chicksen and Josh Earl to depart, leaving no recognised specialist in the squad.