Portsmouth left Bloomfield Road somewhat deflated, having failed to break down ten-man Blackpool on Saturday afternoon.
Jordan Rhodes’ flailing elbow on Joe Rafferty appeared to have given John Mousinho’s side a lifeline after spending large parts of the first half under the cosh.
It wasn’t for the lack of trying. The Blues probably created enough to win the game; Abu Kamara and Kusini Yengi hit the woodwork, and Jack Sparkes saw a free kick that was well-saved.
Furthermore, none of Pompey’s attacking players could get themselves on the end of the barrage of crosses thrown the way of Daniel Grimshaw in the Seasiders’ net.
Ahead of the game, the Fratton Faithful would have taken a point as long as it’s followed up with a win against Burton Albion on Tuesday evening.
Here’s how Portsmouth FC News see the Blues lining up against the Brewers at Fratton Park.
Christian Saydee set for second 2024 Portsmouth start
Starting in defence, Mousinho has been buoyed by the news that Sparkes’ injury is not as severe as first thought.
The 23-year-old was injured in the second half at Bloomfield Road and left the stadium with his ankle in a protective boot and crutches to support.
However, according to BBC Sport’s Andrew Moon, Mousinho has confirmed the defender will be available to face Burton on Tuesday.
Sean Raggett, Conor Shaughnessy and Joe Rafferty will complete the back four in front of Will Norris in goal.
Owen Moxon’s yellow card against Blackpool has ruled him out of Tuesday evening’s clash, which means Myles Peart-Harris is almost certain to partner Marlon Pack at the heart of Pompey’s midfield.
Paddy Lane and Kamara will occupy the wide berths for the Blues. One change could come in the central attacking midfield role, with Christian Saydee replacing Callum Lang.
The former Wigan man suffered a nasty ankle injury after a poor challenge for Ollie Norburn on Saturday and is currently “50/50” for Tuesday’s fixture.
Saydee, who has started just once in 2024, could return after some eye-catching substitute performances.
Another change could see Colby Bishop rested ahead of a three-game week for the Blues and Yengi return from the outside against a side who, let’s face it, Pompey is expected to be beating.