Pompey hoping to stop the rot
Managerless Portsmouth will be hoping they can put an end to a run of three consecutive league defeats when they host in-form Southend after boss Guy Whittingham was sacked on Monday.
Caretaker-manager Andy Awford will have no fresh concerns and could call upon the same XI that lost to Scunthorpe in Whittingham's final match in charge, which would mean a second start for West Ham loanee Dan Potts.
Ryan Bird recovered from injury in time to make the bench at the weekend and will be hoping for a recall following a five-minute cameo but Patrick Agyemang is unlikely to be considered as he continues to struggle with a thigh problem.
Tom Craddock put in a goal-scoring performance on his return to the side last time out and should keep his place in the Pompey attack.
Kevan Hurst will miss Southend's trip due to suspension.
The winger, having put the Essex club ahead in Saturday's home clash against York, saw red for a second bookable offence just before the hour mark and now serves a one-match ban at Fratton Park.
Manager Phil Brown is also monitoring a couple of unnamed players who are doubts having picked up niggles from the dramatic 2-1 victory over the Minstermen at the weekend. Long-term absentee Julian Bennett (knee) remains on the sidelines.
But midfielder Conor Clifford does return to the fold having completed his three-match suspension.
Source: PA
