Pompey had to wait a frustrating 23 days between games over Christmas due to Covid outbreaks.
But their return to action includes a second visit to Cambridge in little over a week, with the sides meeting at Abbey Stadium in the last 16 of the Papa John’s Trophy this evening.
You only have to go back to Friday evening to find the Blues’ last game in the competition, which saw Ronan Curtis net two late goals to seal a dramatic 3-2 triumph.
Their next opponents reached this stage all the way back on November 30, courtesy of a 2-0 home success over Walsall.
Pompey’s recent history in the EFL Trophy is impressive, having reached the Wembley showpiece in two of the past three seasons and lifting the silverware in 2019.
Cambridge have made it to the final once before, losing 4-1 to Blackpool at the Millennium Stadium in 2002.
The sides drew 0-0 in that recent League One meeting, with Sam Smith getting sent off for two bookable offences in the second half.
But Mark Bonner’s men secured a 2-1 victory when the teams clashes at Fratton Park back in September.
Prior to that south coast clash, United had not celebrated victory against the Blues for an incredible 43 years.
Please note that in the event of a draw after 90 minutes, there will be no extra-time and the tie will be decided by a penalty shoot-out.
TEAM NEWS
Pompey have no new injury concerns, with Clark Robertson and Ryan Tunnicliffe both in line to make their comebacks from lengthy spells on the sideline.
Cambridge are likely to rotate their squad, while Kai McKenzie-Lyle and Jensen Weir are both doubtful with knocks.
VIEW FROM THE DRESSING ROOM
Read the thoughts of Blues boss Danny Cowley ahead of the game.
HEAD TO HEAD
Overall
Pompey: 14 wins
Cambridge: 2 wins
4 draws
At Abbey Stadium
Pompey: 6 wins
Cambridge: 1 win
3 draws
TICKETS
Pompey fans can buy tickets at Abbey Stadium on the evening of the game. Click here for more details.
Travelling fans should have Covid certification as they may be asked to show this in order to enter the stadium. Click here for more details.
OFFICIALS
Referee: Ben Toner
Assistants: Stephen Brown and Lisa Rashid
Fourth Official: Sam Purkiss
MATCH COVERAGE
Supporters at home and abroad can watch the contest live by purchasing an iFollow match pass and visiting the match centre.
Domestic iFollow subscribers can also enjoy audio commentary from Andrew Moon and Guy Whittingham as usual, but will need to purchase a match pass if they want to watch the game.
Click here for more information about using iFollow on a matchday and click here for information on downloading the app, so you can access content on your mobile device.
We will have updates throughout the game on Twitter and the match centre. You can also see behind-the-scenes content on our Instagram story.
There will be post-match reaction on the website and our official YouTube channel, with highlights to follow on Wednesday.
Local listeners can hear commentary by tuning in to either Express FM or BBC Radio Solent.
BETTING
Pompey are the 20/21 favourites with VBET to reach the next round, while the hosts can be backed at 23/10.
Click here to find a comprehensive list of odds for this evening’s game. 18+. Please gamble responsibly.
We are committed to playing our part in ensuring our relationship with VBET is promoted in the right way to our supporters.
That is why VBET has partnered with BettorMind, to provide responsible gambling advice around key betting behaviours.
When it comes to betting, we advise all fans to make use of our dedicated responsible gambling site.
PAPA JOHN’S TROPHY QUARTER-FINAL DRAW
Rotherham v Pompey or Cambridge
Sutton v Harrogate
Hartlepool v Charlton
Wigan v Arsenal U21 or Chelsea U21
LAST ROUND
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