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.
9. Midfield 3: Paddy Lane
The 22-year-old made his first appearance of the season following injury as an 89th-minute substitute against Cheltenham. Pompey will be keen to get minutes into the Northern Ireland international's legs - and that might come as a midfielder, with Pompey one man light in that area following Tom Lowery's recent injury. Photo: Jason Brown
10. Right wing: Koby Mottoh
The youngster's potential involvement will go down well with the Fratton faithful, who are desperate for one of their own to break through and make a real impression on the first team. Two goals and two assists from the Academy's 4-0 win against Exeter on Saturday, means the youngster will be full of confidence. The Blues will be keen to make the most of that, but expectations must be tempered. This is a teenager with limited experience after all. Photo: Jason Brown
11. Centre-forward: Christian Saydee
The former Bournemouth front man burst out of the blocks following his Pompey arrival - but has recently had to take a back seat behind Kusini Yengi and Coby Bishop following their goal exploits. He's expected to be handed a chance to unleash his pace and power against Fulham and firmly establish himself back in among the fans' consciousness. Photo: Jason Brown
12. Left-wing: Abu Kamara
The Norwich loanee has bags of talent. And he'll be desperate to showcase that against Fulham's youngsters as he looks to establish himself as a first-team regular. Photo: Jason Brown