Selection problems eased

Lomana Lua Lua and John Curtis were, of course, cup-tied the last time Portsmouth played, but return to the squad for the trip to Merseyside.

Svetoslav Todorov, approaching full fitness, is also pushing for a recall whilst Steve Stone is set to start.

Alexei Smertin is suspended and Eddie Howe has reinjured his ankle. Arjan De Zeeuw is set to play despite sporting a broken nose, and Teddy sheringham, still not back to full fitness, it set to be named as a substitute.