Swansea's George Byers handed Portsmouth full debut at Bristol Rovers as Kenny Jackett steps away

The inclusion of the Swansea loanee is the only change to the side which defeated Swindon 2-0 in their last outing.

Byers replaces Marcus Harness, who drops to the bench, for a Memorial Stadium match overseen by Joe Gallen, following news concerning Kenny Jackett’s health.

Pompey’s manager is not expected to be present at the match as he self-isolates ahead of an operation to remove a mole on Thursday.

Instead Gallen and first-team coach Jake Wigley take charge, having selected the team with Jackett in the build-up.

With Byers the sole change, it means James Bolton continues in the centre of defence, having been in fine form since returning to the starting XI three games previously.

With Rasmus Nicolaisen available again following the birth of his daughter, he comes onto the bench.

However, there is no place for Jack Whatmough in the match-day 18.

Former Hawks striker Jonah Ayunga leads the attack of managerless Rovers, who are without victory in 10 fixtures.

Pompey: MacGillivray, Johnson, Bolton, Raggett, Daniels, Naylor, Cannon, Byers, Williams, Marquis, Curtis.

Subs: Ward, White, Brown, Nicolaisen, Harness, Harrison, Hiwula.