Duncan Barkes

A goalless draw with QPR sandwiched between impressive wins over Leicester and Stoke, has seen the addicts move six points clear of the Blues, although they have played an extra game.

It's been a much-needed turnaround for Nathan Jones' side, who, after a strong start to the season had seemed to be in freefall.

They earned their place in the division after finishing fifth in League One last term, getting past both Wickham and Leighton Orient in the playoffs.

When the sides met in the final game of 2025, it looked like the Londoner's excellent record at Fratton Park was set to continue.

Harvey Nibbs' stoppage-time strike cancelled out Connor Shaughnessy's opener, only for a sensational last-gasp winner from Min-hyuk Yang to finally end the hoodoo.

On their last visit to the Valley back in February 2024, Pompey battled to a goalless draw on their way to clinching the Ligue 1 title.

Before kick-off, a period of applause will be held in loving memory of Charlton fan Norman Headphones' Norm Barker, who sadly passed away after falling ill during the original fixture.

The applause will also be a thank you to both sets of supporters, for the incredible amount of money raised in Norm's memory.

Pompey's injury curse struck again on Saturday, with Andre Dizel, ankle, and Adrian Sejic's leg both forced off.

The pair will be unavailable tonight.

The visitors are also without Aji Eleize, quad.

Keshie Anderson, hamstring.

Florian Bianchini, knee.

Harvey Blair, hip.

Connor Chaplin, groin.

Josh Knight, back.

Mark Kosnovsky, knee.

Hayden Matthews, ankle.

Josh Murphy, foot.

Connor Shaughnessy, quad.