Here's why Portsmouth pushed their Carabao Cup clash with Stevenage forward a week

The Blues' first-round tie at Broadhall Way was moved from Saturday, September 5 to Saturday, August 29.

That meant Pompey had to scrap their friendly scheduled at Championship outfit Bristol City this weekend.

The League Two outfit claimed it was because Kenny Jackett's side had an international call-up for next month's break when the Nations League gets under way.

Pompey winger Ronan Curtis was included in the Republic of Ireland's provisional squad, although he wasn't named in Stephen Kenny's 25-man set-up when announced yesterday.

It's understood the absence of Curtis was in Jackett's mind – although it wasn't the main factor behind his decision.

Pompey were instead keen to avoid starting what will already be a hectic campaign with three matches within an eight-day period.

The Blues already have an EFL Trophy clash against Colchester at Fratton Park on Tuesday, September 8, before hosting Shrewsbury in their League One curtain-raiser on Saturday, September 12.

Should Pompey reach the third round of the Carabao Cup – as they did last campaign – then it would have meant playing seven games in the space of 24 days.

The Blues are currently working with a squad of 20 players, which includes youngster Haji Mnoga.

As a result, Pompey can ill-afford to pick up any early injuries before new recruits arrive.

Assistant-boss Joe Gallen has insisted there will be three fresh faces through the door before the transfer window shuts on October 16.

However, fans will have to hold their nerve as the Blues target the best Premier League and Championship loan players available.