The Pompey roadshow heads into North London tomorrow, to face one of only 2 teams to already have had a taste of Wembley this season.
Vital Quotes:
Pompey have been struck with the news that Defoe is ineligible for a return to his old stomping ground, Premier League red-tape has cut short an emotional return for both he, and Spurs fans alike.
Pompey however will be forced to give a chance to impress to at least a couple of squad men.
Spurs Team News:
Spurs have no fresh injury worries, although Ledley King is expected to be given a rest as he eases back to full fitness.
Keane and Berbatov look likely to continue their partnership as the deadliest duo upfront, combined they have seen Spurs emerge as the Premierships top home scorers, just the defence to sort out then!
Player to watch: Keane
Berbatov may grab more of the headlines, but the Irishman is outscoring him and all others at Spurs, he is in the form of his career and scoring some blinders right now.
Pompey Team News:
Pompey however will have a slightly makeshift look about them, with Defoe league-tied (theres a new one for you) does Harry risk a Kanu run-out, 1 upfront in Baros, or pair him with Utaka? This is also governed by who will play in midfield, Muntari and Diop are both banned for the next 2, so Mendes looks a guaranteed starter against old mates, but has Davis done enough to figure for the first time in weeks, or will it be Hughes or Mvuemba?
Sol Campbell also looks like missing out on a raptuous welcome back to the Lane with a knee injury, so the Spurs fans will have to spread their love elsewhere.
Player to watch: James
The Yids have been banging them in for fun lately, Pompey will be looking to their talismanic ‘keeper to inspire and let the others do some damage at the other end.
Match Facts & Stats
1-0 at Fratton to the Spurs in December, Pompey were in a barren goalless run, and Spurs without an away win until that point.
Match Prediction:
If memory serves me right, we normally lose 2-1 to Spurs at the Lane, normally to a contentious penalty decision, but place your bet here.
Next Fixtures:
A hectic period sees Wigan at Fratton next week, to an insignificant match back in London a week later