ECHOSPORT takes a closer look at tomorrow’s opponents Portsmouth.
THE SEASON SO FAR
After winning League Two last season, Portsmouth have made a steady start to life in League One.
Kenny Jackett took over from Paul Cook as manager in the summer and his side are currently 11th in the table with 23 points from 17 games. Portsmouth have triumphed seven times this term but have been involved in just two draws.
RECENT FORM
Portsmouth head into tomorrow’s game on the back of two successive wins. The Hampshire side won 3-2 at Blackpool last weekend having triumphed 1-0 at Charlton Athletic in their previous outing. Before that, Portsmouth had lost four games in succession but five of their last six matches have taken place away from home.
STYLE OF PLAY
Portsmouth are expected to play in a 4-5-1 formation which will alter to a 4-3-3 when they have possession of the ball.
DANGERMAN
Brett Pitman: The striker has scored 11 goals so far this season with eight of those coming in home matches.
TEAM NEWS
Former Southend midfielder Stuart O’Keefe is available again after a completing a one match suspension for accruing five yellow cards while right-back Nathan Thompson is also back in the squad after serving a ban.
PREDICTED STARTING LINE-UP
McGee, Evans, Burgess, Hawkins, Clarke, Lowe, Close, Rose, Naismith, Bennett, Pitman
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article