Since then, the Blues have said goodbye to three of the players who started the second-leg game at the Kassam Stadium – Christian Burgess, Steve Seddon and Cameron McGeehan.
Meanwhile, the likes of Alex Bass, James Bolton, Bryn Morris and Ellis Harrison – who also started the last meeting – find themselves on the fringes of the first team at this moment in time. Although, Harrison did, of course, start the last game against Crewe.
Despite the obvious turnaround in team selection, though, we’re predicting a familiar look to the Pompey starting XI tonight.
Lee Brown and Callum Johnson are expected to return to the full-back roles, while a Ryan Williams return is anticipated following a recent hip complaint.
So here’s how we feel the Blues will line-up tonight in a 4-4-2 formation – and why…
5. Lee Brown (left-back)
Cameron Pring will feel hard done by after being forced to make way for the 30-year-old at half-time against Crewe. But Brown's experience counts for a lot and his presence and know-how will be needed again for an important game against Oxford. Photo: Joe Pepler
6. Ryan Williams (Right-wing)
The Aussie has established himself as a key player in the Pompey team. His play may lack goals but Williams' overall game is important in this current system. Is happy to swap roles with Marcus Harness and lead the line alongside John Marquis. An intelligent player, and someone whom Kenny Jackett trusts. Ellis Harrison is likely to drop out as the Blues prepare to welcome back Williams following a hip injury. Photo: Graham Hunt
7. Tom Naylor (central midfield)
Naylor brings many qualities to this Blues team - leadership, composure, competitiveness, reliability to name but a few - and now, of course, goals. With the midfielder boosting such calibre, it still surprises many why he was left out entirely of the play-off double-header against Oxford back in July. Photo: Joe Pepler
8. Andy Cannon (central midfield)
Pompey fans are finally seeing what the midfielder brings to the table. Many were left wondering after a protracted below-par start to his Fratton career. But now he's announced himself on to the scene. The energy and drive he provides are compulsory to the current workings of this team and the formation Kenny Jackett has adopted in recent weeks. Also complements Naylor's style. Photo: Joe Pepler