Awaiting them is a Latics side likely to include popular Blues old boys Jack Whatmough and Tom Naylor – and a host of other imposing new additions as the big-sending home side bid to return to the Championship as soon as possible.
But with the Blues also impressing in the transfer window and Danny Cowley already getting his new-look side to gel as they enjoy an unbeaten start to their league campaign, there’s an opportunity here to put a real marker down against a promotion rival.
Pompey will need to improve on last Saturday’s attacking display at Doncaster – a game which ended in a goalless draw.
If they can get that right, while the defence continues to prove rock solid, then there’s every chance of another enjoyable afternoon at the DW Stadium.
Here’s how we think the Blues could line up as they bid to achieve that and remain unbeaten in the third tier.
5. Connor Ogilvie - left-back
The former Gillingham man got the nod over Lee Brown for the trip to Doncaster as Danny Cowley freshened things up a bit at the Keepmoat. Ogilvie was solid and his defensive qualities suggest he might get picked over Brown again for the visit to the DW Stadium. Photo: JPIMedia
6. Midfield - Ryan Tunnicliffe
Has been a key player for Pompey in the middle of the park to date. Has set the bar high since arriving from Luton - but last weekend's trip to Donny wasn't Tunnicliffe's best performance in a Blues shirt. The midfield was a battle area the visitors lost - and the trip to the DW stadium promises to be no easier. Will need to be at his best. Photo: JPIMedia
7. Central midfield - Shaun Williams
Gave way to Joe Morrell at the Keepmoat but was soon called upon to shore things up in the middle of the park. Could accompany both Morrell and Tunnicliffe in the engine room on Saturday as the Blues gear up for an intense battle at the DW Stadium which could be won or lost on the midfield duels. Photo: JPIMedia
8. Central-midfield - Joe Morrell
The Wales midfielder struggled to get a foothold on his full debut at Doncaster. With both Tunnicliffe and Williams possibly for company in the midfield for the trip to Wigan, his quality and influence could come to the fore more. Photo: JPIMedia