Eight summer signings mean there could be plenty of new faces on show when Pompey start their League One campaign at Shrewsbury on Saturday.
Sean Raggett and Ryan Williams are both nursing minor injuries, but the rest will be eager to make their debuts.
Defenders Paul Downing and James Bolton, midfielder Ross McCrorie, winger Marcus Harness, and strikers Ellis Harrison and John Marquis are all straining to be let off the leash.
And, with the serious business about to get started, Kenny Jackett is pleased with the shape of his squad.
The Blues boss said: “There have been some changes, with several players arriving and others leaving the club.
“We do feel that can give us fresh energy and enthusiasm, while also hopefully offering balance and quality as the season goes on.
"It’s my job to make sure these players can settle down, build up relationships and gain a foothold in the team."
“I’m pleased with the business we’ve done, with the likes of Mark Catlin and Tony Brown working very hard.
“Now it’s my job to make sure these players can settle down, build up relationships and gain a foothold in the team.
“There were a lot of things we did very well last season, but now our aim is to try to win promotion. That’s the ultimate goal.
“We have some big games coming up in the early stages of the campaign and I’m looking forward to working with these players.”
Shrewsbury finished just two points above the drop zone in the 2018/19 campaign, but Jackett expects them to be more competitive this time around.
He said: “I was impressed with what Sam Ricketts did there last season and I believe they’ll be one of the clubs setting out to finish in the top six.
“They’ve recruited well and have got good depth to their squad. It’s never easy going to Shrewsbury and certainly won’t be on Saturday.
“It’s going to be a test for us and one we want to overcome, but we’re looking forward to getting started.”
Jackett is confident that three of Pompey’s injured players will soon be back and vying for a place in the team.
He said: “Ryan, Sean and Bryn Morris are unavailable for Saturday, although they’re not long-term issues.
“Hopefully all three will be fit and available for us in the coming weeks, with Jack Whatmough the only other one who’s currently out.”