The Blues will be keen to do well in a competition they’ve impressed in in recent years.
And with John Mousinho’s squad more competitive than it has been recently, there’s a good chance that Pompey’s strength in depth will stand them in good stead this term.
That squad strength will be put to the test as – like the Blues’ trip to Forest Green in the Carabao Cup – Mousinho prepares to make changes to the side held by Cheltenham on Saturday.
But what will those changes look like and how many can we expect? Well, here’s the side we think the Blues could line up with as Fulham’s youngsters head to PO4.
1. Portsmouth Head Coach John Mousinho during the EFL Sky Bet League 1 match between Portsmouth and Cheltenham Town at Fratton Park, Portsmouth, England on 19 August 2023.
Pompey head coach John Mousinho Photo: Jason Brown
2. Goalkeeper: Ryan Schofield
The former Huddersfield keeper won't have been impressed with himself following his debut against Forest Green in the Carabao Cup. He'll be desperate to make amends against Fulham and prove to the Fratton faithful that he can challenge Will Norris for the No1 jersey. Photo: Jason Brown
3. Right-back: Zak Swanson
During commentary of Pompey's league game against Exeter on Tuesday night, it was said the Blues have the two best right-backs in League One. That's great for John Mousinho, but not so great for Swanson, who continues to bide his time waiting for a slip-up for Joe Rafferty. He might be in for a long wait if that's the case! Photo: Jason Brown
4. Centre-back 1: Sean Raggett
Raggett has found himself in the unusual position of warming the bench this season. That's allowed him to feature for just six minutes in the league this season - so no-one will be more desperate to feature and impress against Fulham's youngsters than he. Photo: Jason Brown