There are a number of intriguing subplots to this evening’s south coast contest between Pompey and Ipswich (7.45pm kick-off).
Visiting boss Paul Cook led the Blues to the 2016/17 League Two title, with Tractor Boys striker Conor Chaplin playing his part in that triumph.
So to did Gary Roberts, who is now on the Suffolk side’s backroom team, along with ex-Fratton goalkeeping coach John Keeley.
Pompey duo Ellis Harrison and Ryan Tunnicliffe both had previous stints at Portman Road, while Gavin Bazunu, Michael Jacobs, Joe Morrell and Mahlon Romeo were all linked with a move there over the summer.
But tonight is also a match between two clubs who will feel they should be sitting higher in the League One standings.
An inconsistent start to the campaign has left Pompey in 12th position after a dozen fixtures, while their opponents are one point – and three places – behind.
Ipswich failed to win any of their opening eight games in all competitions, although have picked up of late.
They are the division’s top scorers with 23 strikes – helped by last month’s 6-0 rout of bottom club Doncaster.
But nobody has conceded more than the 21 that have gone in at the other end and the side let slip a two-goal lead to draw at Cambridge on Saturday.
Pompey won all three meetings between the sides last season, including a 2-1 victory at Fratton Park in Danny Cowley’s first match in charge.
TEAM NEWS
Republic of Ireland international Ronan Curtis is available again after being suspended for Saturday’s defeat at Rotherham.
Paul Downing (hamstring), Ellis Harrison (ankle), Jayden Reid (knee), Clark Robertson (hip) and Liam Vincent (shin) are all sidelined.
Ipswich have doubts over Hayden Coulson (groin) and Christian Walton (thigh), while Jon Nolan (calf) will definitely miss out.
Summer signings Lee Evans and Joe Pigott were both absent for the Tractor Boys at the weekend for family reasons.
VIEW FROM THE DRESSING ROOM
Read the thoughts of Danny Cowley and Connor Ogilvie or watch the video below.
HEAD TO HEAD
Overall
Pompey: 16 wins
Ipswich: 19 wins
12 draws
At Fratton Park
Pompey: 6 wins
Ipswich: 10 wins
7 draws
TICKETS
There are a limited number of single seats still available for this evening’s match, which can be bought online here or by visiting the Anson Road ticket office.
Please note that all parking has been pre-booked and there are no more spaces available in the club car park.
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.
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: Joshua Smith
Assistants: Rob Smith and Sam Lewis
Fourth Official: Tom Bishop
MATCH COVERAGE
Supporters at home and abroad can watch the contest live – with four-camera coverage – 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, 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 6/4 favourites with VBET to secure all three points, while the visitors can be backed at 21/10.
Click here to find a comprehensive list of odds for this evening's game. 18+. Please gamble responsibly.
ALSO IN LEAGUE ONE
All games kick-off at 7.45pm
Cambridge v Sheffield Wednesday
Charlton v Accrington
Cheltenham v Morecambe
Crewe v Sunderland
Fleetwood v Burton
Gillingham v Doncaster
Lincoln v AFC Wimbledon
Oxford v Shrewsbury
Plymouth v Bolton
Rotherham v Wycombe
Wigan v MK Dons
LAST MEETING