Pompey return to Fratton Park for this league one opener against South Coast rivals Bournemouth. Pompey boss Michael Appleton has been busy over the last few days after finally getting the go ahead to build his squad. His charges will come up against former Pompey coach Paul Groves, who took over the Dean Court hot seat in the summer.
Team News
Pompey made a host of last minute signings, including new club captain Brian Howard.
He is joined by Izale McLeod, Jon Harley, Kieran Djilali, Mustapha Dumbuya and Lee Williamson .
Goalkeeper Simon Eastwood has also signed a deal after appearing on non-contract terms against Plymouth, he will play between the sticks while Pompey finalise a deal to sign Reading keeper Mikkel Anderson on loan.
Assistant manager Ashley Westwood will not feature after injuring his ankle in the Plymouth defeat.
Paul Groves has no fresh injury concerns, and will give a start to Pompey summer transfer target Tommy Elphick. He will be keen for his side to improve on Tuesdays defeat to Oxford.
History
Pompey and Bournemouth have faced off 16 times, Pompey having the upper hand with 8 victories.
The last fixture was a resounding Pompey victory, the Fratton Park crowd witnessing a 5-1 demolition in an FA Cup tie.
The last league meetings between this side were also won by Pompey, as they did the double over the Cherries in 1989/1990
Line Up
Likely Pompey Line Up : Eastwood, Dumbuya, Harley, Webster, Djillali, Walker, Howard, Compton, Williamson, Rodgers, McLeod
Likely Bournemouth Line Up : Jalal, Francis, Zubar, Addison, Partington, Pugh, Arter, Daniels, Thomas, Tubbs, Grabban
Discussion
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