Eight games separate Portsmouth and their first Championship campaign since the 2012 season.
It’s been a painful time for the club, but finally, under the ownership of Michael Eisner and his family, John Mousinho’s side are now within touching distance of the second tier.
The Blues began a tough run of fixtures on Saturday against Blackpool. The 0-0 draw with The Seasiders was followed by a routine three points against Burton Albion on Tuesday evening.
Up next is an ominous-looking trip to Peterborough United, a team the Blues have often struggled against, particularly at London Road.
The following fixture sees Barnsley make the trip to Fratton Park in what is another crunch promotion clash at the top of League One.
Neil Collins’ side are ten points behind the Blues, having played one fewer game. Should The Tykes win against Cheltenham this weekend, the clash on the South Coast will be a compelling affair.
Portsmouth striker out of Barnsley clash next week
Due to the fixture falling in the middle of the international break, there was always a risk of the fixture being called off.
However, with both teams unlikely to have three players unavailable, Barnsley’s trip south will still go ahead.
Nevertheless, both teams could be without players.
As reported by BBC Sport’s Andrew Moon, Kusini Yengi is out of the match after being called up to the Australia squad for their upcoming World Cup qualifying fixtures against Lebanon.
Barnsley are also waiting to hear if Devante Cole will be available, having been provisionally called up to the Jamaica squad.
Can Portsmouth cope without Kusini Yengi?
Yengi has become somewhat of a fan favourite this season, having netted six League One goals in his 18 matches. Crucially, he’s only started five games thus far.
The Australian’s pace, power and finishing ability have caught the eye, and he’s undoubtedly staking a claim to be the Blues’ first-choice striker. However, Colby Bishop’s ability cannot be overlooked. His 16 goals and xG of 20.37 puts him among the division’s elite forwards.
The 27-year-old undoubtedly have a significant role to play against Barnsley. Elsewhere, Tino Anjorin could return next week, having spent four months out with a hamstring issue.