Portsmouth vs Wigan Athletic preview: Team news, predicted lineups, how to watch and ones to watch
 (Photo by Kevin Barnes - CameraSport via Getty Images)

Portsmouth host crisis club Wigan Athletic this weekend as Kenny Jackett's side seek their first win of the season. Pompey come into this off the back of two 0-0 draws, whilst the Latics lost both their opening two games.

John Sheridan's side lost out to Ipswich Town on the opening day 2-0, before a narrow 3-2 home defeat to Gillingham. 

  • Team News

Michael Jacobs is attempting to make his way into the starting XI for Portsmouth. The 28-year-old spent five years at the DW Stadium with Wigan but could make his first start for Pompey against his former club. 

Meanwhile, Kenny Jackett has a stable defence after keeping two consecutive clean sheets. Alex Bass remains out with an ankle injury, meaning Craig MacGillivray is likely to retain his place between the sticks.

John Sheridan has a depleted squad to choose from, given the mass exodus at Wigan during the off-season. However, from the current squad, the new boss has no new injury worries. 

Gary Roberts is out with a hamstring injury he sustained against Gillingham last week. 

  • Predicted Line-ups

Portsmouth (4-2-3-1)

MacGillivray; Johnson, Whatmough, Raggett, Brown; Naylor, Morris; Harness, Cannon, Curtis; Marquis.

Wigan Athletic (4-2-3-1)

Jones; James, Cameron, Fox, Pearce; Perry, Evans; Solomon- Obator, Roberts, Naismith; Garner. 

  • Ones to watch 

As mentioned, Portsmouth contested two 0-0 draws from their opening two encounters. Needless to say, their defence has been impressive whilst a lack of flair on the opposite end of the pitch is hindering their progress.

Central defender Jack Whatmough featured in the latest League One team of the week for his assured and steady performance at the back. Wigan forward Joe Garner will have a tough afternoon ahead being man marked by the in form 24-year-old. 

Ronan Curtis is always a danger at League One level, despite Pompey's attacking struggles. The Irish winger is taking 3.5 shots per 90 and playing two key passes per game. With that level of offensive output, he is destined to cause Wigan issues.

Wigan have struggled so far in their return to League One. Despite this, forward Garner scored twice against Gillingham. The forward has scored regularly in League One before with Preston North End and appears to be spearheading Wigan's valiant efforts to stay afloat this season. 

  • How to watch

This fixture is available to watch via iFollow, the EFL's official streaming service. Access can be gained from "iFollow Pompey", or via "LaticsTV".