Macdonald could be given Blackpool debut

Blackpool could hand Calum Macdonald his debut as they host Portsmouth at Bloomfield Road.

The Scotland Under-21 left-back joined earlier in the week from Championship side Derby and could contribute as the Seasiders look to extend an unbeaten League One run that has left them second in the table.

Manager Simon Grayson has also spoken of his intention to include centre back Ben Heneghan, who has renewed his loan agreement with the club and made a stoppage-time appearance when they drew with Rochdale last time out.

Midfielder Jordan Thompson has been called up to represent his native Northern Ireland in international friendlies versus Luxembourg and the Czech Republic.

The 22-year-old will still be available for the Portsmouth game but will miss the following matches against Morecambe and Coventry.

Portsmouth will have received a welcome confidence boost from their defeat of Championship side QPR in the Carabao Cup second round.

On-form duo John Marquis and Marcus Harness will be likely participants, with both having scored against QPR.

Left-back Brandon Haunstrup is due to start in place of the injured Lee Brown, who faces six weeks on the sidelines with an Achilles issue.

Bryn Morris is still troubled with a stomach injury, whilst both Ryan Williams and Oli Hawkins have returned to training following injury but are not expected to participate.