It is the start of a new era for Pompey today, as Danny Cowley takes to the Fratton Park dug-out for the first time.
His opening match in charge – flanked by younger brother Nicky – sees Ipswich visiting the south coast for a League One contest (1pm kick-off).
And a quirk of the fixture scheduling fates means that there is plenty of interest in the man stalking the other technical area as well.
The Tractor Boys also decided on a recent change of manager in an attempt to halt their slide down the table.
They opted to replace Paul Lambert with Paul Cook, who, of course, memorably led Pompey to the 2016/17 League Two title.
He has been in charge of four games so far, with one win, one draw and a couple of defeats to his name, while former Blues midfielder Gary Roberts has also joined their coaching team.
It leaves Ipswich sitting seventh in the third tier standings, three places and two points above their hosts.
They had seemed on course for promotion last term, but a dramatic downturn in form meant they were 11th when the season was cancelled due to Covid-19.
Pompey have already enjoyed a pair of victories over their Suffolk opponents this season – with both coming at Portman Road.
A controversial Sean Raggett goal in extra-time secured FA Cup progress, while Ryan Williams’ brace was enough to earn three points just before Christmas.
TEAM NEWS
Ellis Harrison is likely to miss the rest of the season after injuring his lateral knee ligaments, while Alex Bass (foot) is still sidelined.
Pompey also have doubts over Michael Jacobs (hamstring), Callum Johnson (calf) and John Marquis (ankle).
Ipswich will have to do without key duo Flynn Downes (hamstring) and James Norwood (back) at Fratton Park.
Striker Oli Hawkins will not be able to feature against his former club, having only just returned to training following knee surgery.
VIEW FROM THE DRESSING ROOM
Read the thoughts of new head coach Danny Cowley and midfielder Ben Close ahead of the game.
HEAD TO HEAD
Overall
Pompey: 15 wins
Ipswich: 19 wins
12 draws
At Fratton Park
Pompey: 5 wins
Ipswich: 10 wins
7 draws
OFFICIALS
Referee: Alan Young
Assistants: Stuart Butler and Paul Evans
Fourth Official: Sam Purkiss
MATCH COVERAGE
Supporters in the UK can watch the action live – with graphics, commentary and replays – by purchasing a match pass for £10.
Subscribers will, as usual, be able to listen to listen to live commentary from Andy Moon and Guy Whittingham by signing into their account and visiting the match centre from 12pm.
Please note that subscribers based in the UK and Ireland will still need to purchase a match pass in order to watch the game live.
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 Express FM or BBC Radio Solent.
BETTING
Pompey are the 23/20 favourites with VBET to secure all three points, while the visitors can be backed at 14/5.
Click here to find a comprehensive list of odds for Saturday’s game. 18+. Be Gamble Aware.
ALSO IN LEAGUE ONE
All games kick-off at 3pm
Accrington v Wigan
AFC Wimbledon v Charlton
Burton v MK Dons
Fleetwood v Swindon
Gillingham v Doncaster
Northampton v Crewe
Oxford v Blackpool
Plymouth v Bristol Rovers
Rochdale v Peterborough
Shrewsbury v Hull
Sunderland v Lincoln
LAST FRATTON MEETING