Lincoln v Portsmouth: injury updates and selection posers ahead of crucial clash

The defender, who has been a key player for the Blues this season, is facing three weeks on the sidelines after suffering a hamstring problem during Saturday’s 2-0 defeat to Charlton at Fratton Park.

Whatmough’s injury hands Rasmus Nicolaisen the chance to finally show what he can do in a Pompey shirt.

The on-loan Midtjylland defender has had to be patient since arriving in September.

He’s made just four appearances to date, with the EFL game against Southend representing his only start.

SEE ALSO: Raggett open to switch as Pompey prepare for defensive reshuffle for Lincoln trip

However, Nicolaisen is expected to start alongside Sean Raggett in the centre of the Pompey defence, with the latter set to switch to the right-hand side of the pairing.

Winger Michael Jacobs remains out with a knee injury.

Meanwhile, manager Kenny Jackett must decide whether to freshen things up after Saturday’s defeat against the Addicks.

Ellis Harrison is pushing for a start after coming off the bench against Charlton following a hamstring injury

For Lincoln, centre-back Joe Walsh will be out for a sustained period of time after suffering knee cartilage damage.

The former MK Dons man has been described as a ‘Rolls Royce’ by manager Michael Appleton and his absence – expected to be 12 weeks – represents a huge blow.

Walsh was replaced by the returning Adam Jackson in Lincoln's 1-0 defeat to Doncaster at the weekend.

The ex-Pompey manager will also be without his captain Liam Bridcutt for the next few games after he suffered a thigh setback in the Imps’ 1-0 win over Crewe.

Striker Callum Morton, on loan from West Brom, is expected to have surgery on a shoulder injury.

Meanwhile, tonight’s game looks like it will come too soon for Max Melbourne as he recovers from a quad problem.

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

Thank you for reading this story. The News has launched a new subscription offer which gives you unlimited access to all of our Pompey coverage.

You can subscribe here to get the latest updates from Fratton Park, transfer news and expert analysis from our team of Pompey writers.

Every subscription helps us continue providing trusted, local journalism on your behalf for our city.