The Blues travel to Ipswich in the first round of the FA Cup. It’s the tie of the round, according to Kenny Jackett, as he tries to plot his side’s way into the second stage of the historic competition.
Pompey have had plenty of success in cup competitions in recent years. Last term, they made it all the way to the fifth round before being defeated by Premier League heavyweights Arsenal.
But some fans feel the knockout tournaments have hindered the Blues’ promotion chances, having been defeated in the play-off semi-finals in the past two seasons.
So will Jackett opt to ring the changes from the 3-1 victory at Lincoln City on Tuesday? We’ve predicted his starting line-up and his bench to face Ipswich below.
1. Goalkeeper - Craig MacGillivray
The Scot certainly won't want to be rested for the game after breaking his way back into the starting XI this season. Photo: Joe Pepler
2. Right-back - Callum Johnson
Made the right-back spot very much his own. Likely to be given a rest next week against West Ham under-21s. Photo: Daniel Chesterton
3. Centre-back - Sean Raggett
Moved to the right-hand side during Jack Whatmough's absence but barely put a foot wrong despite switch. Photo: Jason Brown
4. Centre-back - Rasmus Nicolaisen
A composed showing from the Dane at Lincoln and he will be champing at the bit for more minutes. Photo: Nigel Keene