Pompey set for fresh challenge
Portsmouth could start life in the bottom tier of English football with as many as 11 new faces to choose from when they host Oxford.
In an attempt to steady the ship, manager Guy Whittingham has brought in a host of players including Monaco's Romain Padovani and Hull duo Danny East and Sonny Bradley.
Despite that, Pompey's boss will have to make do without influential centre-back Ricardo Rocha, who failed to agree terms on a new deal at Fratton Park.
The two teams last met back in December 1998 when a Steve Claridge double secured a 2-2 draw for the hosts.
Oxford boss Chris Wilder could hand veteran striker Dave Kitson his first start against his former club.
The 33-year-old, who joined from Sheffield United earlier in the summer, is in contention to make his Us debut should the manager wish to freshen things up in attack.
Wilder has plenty of defensive options, with new signings Jonathan Meades, David Hunt, Tom Newey and Johnny Mullins vying for a place in the matchday squad.
Midfielders Danny Rose and Asa Hall could also make their debuts.
Source: PA
