There is often talk of a curse following the award of a ‘Manager of the Month’ prize and Danny Cowley was the latest recipient of the League One prize.
But there is some good news for Blues fans who are looking for a lucky omen following that piece of news.
The last Pompey boss to collect such an award was Paul Cook in April 2017 and he immediately guided his side to a 6-1 victory over Cheltenham to secure the fourth tier title.
There is nothing quite so important at stake this weekend, although three points against Morecambe would still provide a festive treat.
Cowley’s men are currently on an eight-match unbeaten run in the league and sit ninth in the standings.
Their next opponents, meanwhile, are down in 20th spot and just a single point above the drop zone.
Stephen Robinson’s troops are looking to bounce back from a 5-0 humbling at Sunderland earlier in the week.
The Shrimps secured the League Two title at the end of last term, by beating Newport after extra-time at Wembley
They have not won any of their four previous visits to Fratton Park, with Kal Naismith on target as the most recent clash finished 1-1.
TEAM NEWS
Pompey are continuing to be hampered by a sickness bug, with Michael Jacobs and Joe Morrell among the players struggling.
Clark Robertson is back on the grass as he steps up his recovery from a long-term hip problem and could return to action by the end of December.
Lee Brown (back), Louis Thompson (abdominal), Ryan Tunnicliffe (hamstring), Paul Downing (calf) and Jayden Reid (knee) are all still sidelined.
Morecambe midfielder Shane McLoughlin is available again after serving a one-match ban, but summer signing Jon Obika has yet to feature after injuring his hamstring.
VIEW FROM THE DRESING ROOM
Read the thoughts of Danny Cowley ahead of the game.
HEAD TO HEAD
Overall
Pompey: 2 wins
Morecambe: 2 wins
4 draws
At Fratton Park
Pompey: 2 wins
Morecambe: 0 wins
2 draws
TICKETS
Tickets are available to buy online here or from the Anson Road ticket office.
Fans buying tickets on a matchday can also visit the booth behind the Fratton End, but please note that prices increase if not purchased in advanced.
Fratton Park is now a cashless stadium, with contactless payments will be required in all food kiosks and hospitality areas, as well as for the purchase of tickets.
The Victory Bar will be open for home fans from midday on Saturday.
COVID ‘PLAN B’
The EFL have asked for supporters to ‘be prepared’ ahead of the start of Covid ‘Plan B’ measures from next Wednesday, but please note that these do not affect Saturday’s game.
Portsmouth Football Club respectfully ask all supporters to adhere to the Code of Conduct to ensure an enjoyable and safe matchday experience for all.
OFFICIALS
Referee: Charles Breakspear
Assistants: Leigh Crowhurst and Garry Maskell
Fourth Official: Stuart Butler
MATCH COVERAGE
Domestic iFollow subscribers can listen to live commentary from Andrew Moon and Guy Whittingham by signing into their account and visiting the match centre from around 2pm on Saturday.
Overseas subscribers and match pass holders can watch the action and commentary will begin from around 10 minutes before kick-off.
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 Sunday.
Local listeners can hear commentary by tuning in to either BBC Radio Solent or Express FM.
BETTING
Pompey are the 1/2 favourites with VBET to secure all three points, while the visitors can be backed at 5/1.
Click here to find a comprehensive list of odds for Saturday's game. 18+. Please gamble responsibly.
ALSO IN LEAGUE ONE
All games kick-off at 3pm
Accrington v Bolton
Charlton v Cambridge
Cheltenham v Lincoln
Crewe v Sheffield Wednesday
Doncaster v Shrewsbury
Fleetwood v Gillingham
MK Dons v Oxford
Rotherham v Burton
Sunderland v Plymouth
Wigan v Ipswich
Wycombe v AFC Wimbledon
MEMORABLE MEETING