Portsmouth will look to extend their six-point advantage at the top of League One as they host Cambridge United at Fratton Park on Tuesday night.
John Mousinho’s side are coming off of four wins in five matches after a difficult run of form during Christmas.
After an impressive January window, the Pompey boss has options to choose from, which could see a number of changes against the U’s.
Here, Portsmouth FC News takes a look at how Pompey could line up on Tuesday evening, with three changes to the side that beat Carlisle United 1-0.
Goalkeeper Will Norris has been an ever-present since his summer arrival and will almost certainly retain his place ahead of Matt Macey. The former Peterborough has 15 clean sheets this season; more than any other League One shot-stopper.
Mousinho will likely name an unchanged central defensive duo, with Conor Shaughnessy and the ever-impressive Sean Raggett retaining their spots. Despite Zak Swanson returning to training (via The Portsmouth News, 8 February), Joe Rafferty should retain his place at right back.
One potential change could be Jack Sparkes’ return for Connor Ogilvie. Ogilvie has proven to be a key player for Pompey – particularly against the league’s better sides – but to keep the 27-year-old fresh, Mousinho could give the left-back a much-needed rest.
Another change could occur in midfield, with Tom Lowery given a rest and new signing Owen Moxon given his first start.
The final alteration could occur near the top end of the pitch, with January signing Myles Peart-Harris replaced by Abu Kamara.
Kamara made an immediate impact during the Blues’ most recent win against Carlisle United and should be rewarded with a start. Callum Lang, Paddy Lane and Colby Bishop are likely to make up the rest of Pompey’s attacking quartet.
Mousinho to freshen things up
It should be no surprise to see the Blues freshen things up, and Mousinho has made no secret of this.
“Everybody is fully aware that we’ve played more games than most sides at this level, so we’ve got a decent enough run, but it still gives us a good opportunity to rotate,” said the Pompey boss (via The Portsmouth News).
Pompey have played 31 fixtures, more than most in the third tier. With rivals Bolton having played three games fewer; the Blues’ less congested fixture list certainly looks more kind.
Rotation should be at the forefront of Mousinho’s mind, particularly against a side Pompey should be beating at home.
With a tough-looking test against Reading on Saturday, looking to ring the changes once again could well be on the agenda.