Bolton Wanderers travel to Portsmouth tomorrow aiming to return to winning ways in League One.
Wanderers make the journey down to Fratton Park to take on Pompey in League One aiming to return to winning ways in the division.
Wanderers halted a run of three successive losses last time out when they came from behind to claim a point against Gillingham in a 2-2 draw.
READ MORE: Portsmouth handed injury boost on defensive duo ahead of visit of Bolton Wanderers
Ian Evatt's side sit 13th in the division at present, while Danny Cowley's men at 16th at present, with both clubs seeking victory tomorrow.
Ahead of the clash, we caught up with our colleagues at Hampshire Live and the website's Portsmouth FC writer Jonty Colman to ge the lowdown on Pompey so far this season, how they have performed and the dangermen Wandeers will have to be wary of.
What have you made of Portsmouth's start to the season?
"Very indifferent, erratic and full of inconsistency. They started with ten points and clean sheets in all of their opening four games and from there, they had looked to be a very impressive side and one that would be right up there.
"However, since then, there has been a nosedive and while there have been some pleasing performances, one win in 11 in the league says all you need to know about the last few months.
"There have been contributing factors that have not helped, including a major summer overhaul, a lack of depth at centre-back and a few injury issues but for the quality in this team, it is safe to say that they are currently underperforming."
Who have been the standout performers so far this campaign?
"A few names spring to mind on this. Centre-back Sean Raggett, who has had his fair share of criticism in his time at the club, has been near-faultless this term.
"A typical warrior of a centre-back, he does the essentials so so well and while he may not be a vocal leader, his playing style and encouragement that way is certainly pleasing. Manchester City loanee and Republic of Ireland international Gavin Bazunu had a fantastic start in goal, although or or two errors have crept in recently.
"Wales international midfielder Joe Morrell is growing into his role on a game by game basis and Marcus Harness has been chipping in with the goals and is only two off his seven for the whole of last season in League One."
What are the expectations at Fratton Park this season?
"Recent form has severely changed the opinions of many supporters, although some thought in the summer that this would be a season of transition.
"Ask Cowley or any of his players and they want to be challenging for promotion, as the Blues have done in each of their previous four campaigns in this league.
"This team has the capability, but it may lack the depth as a couple of injuries have recently proved. It certainly lacks consistency. I am expecting it all to click at some point and from where they are now, top six would be a great achievement."
How has Danny Cowley performed as Pompey boss so far?
"There have been some streaky patches, much to his frustration although it goes unnoticed that he has been pretty unlucky with injuries since arriving.
"He has now had 26 league games as head coach, starting with wins in his first four games last season despite being starved of options up front due to injuries and suspensions.
"I really like what he is trying to do, both on and off the pitch and he acts and plans like someone who is here for the long term, although short term success of course remains paramount. Pompey in recent years have been patient and while results have not been good enough, part of that is not necessarily his fault."
What's the latest team/injury news?
"Captain and centre-back Clark Robertson is out with a hip injury. Fellow centre-back Paul Downing is also out with a hamstring problem, with Ellis Harrison also sidelined due to an ankle issue.
"If those absentees remain the same come kick-off, Cowley will have just 19 senior players to choose from in the best case scenario."
Who do you think are Pompey's dangermen who Wanderers will have to look out for?
"Wingers Harness and Ronan Curtis have been in good form recently and Curtis is only one goal off becoming the club's leading scorer for the 21st century, with the Republic of Ireland forward currently tied with the great Yakubu. Of course, even more impressive considering none of those goals were penalties.
"John Marquis also has a good pedigree at this level and while he has just three goals to his name this season, his link-up play has certainly improved.
