Pompey put their play-off ambitions to one side this evening and focus on trying to reach the quarter-finals of the Checkatrade Trophy.
They face a Chelsea under-21 side in what is the final round of the competition to be split into southern and northern sections.
Both sides will be aiming to win inside 90 minutes, otherwise a penalty shoot-out will be held, using the new ‘ABBA’ format.
Kenny Jackett’s side men reached this stage by finishing top of their group and then seeing off Northampton in the last 32.
Their opponents were runners-up in their section, but then enjoyed a 4-0 romp at MK Dons to progress further.
Chelsea’s development outfit – who are managed by Joe Edwards – were beaten 2-0 at Swansea on Saturday, leaving them eighth in the top tier of Premier League 2.
Pompey have not faced the Londoners since they were – rather harshly – beaten 4-0 in an FA Cup tie at Stamford Bridge in January 2012.
The winners of tonight’s game will find out their next opponents when the draw is made on Sky Sports Football’s EFL Matters show from 7pm on Thursday.
TEAM NEWS
Gareth Evans (hamstring), Brandon Haunstrup (knee), Milan Lalkovic (Achilles), Stuart O’Keefe (groin), Danny Rose (leg) and Jack Whatmough (knee) are all still sidelined.
But Kal Naismith has returned to fitness, while recent loan arrivals Sylvain Deslandes and Connor Ronan could be handed debuts.
Chelsea’s side must include at least six players aged under 21, with £33 million signing Michy Batshuayi featuring for them in the last round.
VIEW FROM THE DRESSING ROOM
Read the thoughts of Kenny Jackett and Adam May on tonight’s game or register for a free iFollow account to watch the below videos.
HEAD TO HEAD
Overall
Pompey: 21 Wins
Chelsea: 38 Wins
24 Draws
At Fratton Park
Pompey: 15 Wins
Chelsea: 17 Wins
10 Draws
TICKETS
Seats can be bought online here or from the Frogmore Road ticket office. Only the North Stand Lower and wheelchair sections are open tonight.
Supporters purchasing tickets this evening should visit the booths located behind the Fratton End.
Please note that the Victory Bar will not be open for this match. Parking is available on a first come, first served basis, priced £5.
MATCH COVERAGE
This match will be screened live on iFollow via the match centre to both international and domestic subscribers.
Supporters can also purchase a one-off match pass for £5. Click here for more information.
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 also have updates on Twitter and via the match centre.
There will be post-match reaction on the website, iFollow and our official YouTube channel, with
highlights to follow on Wednesday.
Local listeners can hear commentary on Express FM or BBC Radio Solent (not online), while The News will also have extensive coverage.
BETTING
Pompey are 6/5 favourites with Sky Bet to win the tie after 90 minutes, while the visitors can be backed at 21/10.
Click here to read our full betting guide and sign-up at www.skybet.com/pompey for great offers and promotions. Please gamble responsibly.
ALSO IN CHECKATRADE TROPHY
Bury v Fleetwood (7.30pm)
Oldham v Leicester U21 (7.30pm)
Charlton v Oxford
Luton v Peterborough
Rochdale v Lincoln
Yeovil v Forest Green
Wednesday
Shrewsbury v Blackpool (7pm)
LAST ROUND