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