Preview: Portsmouth v West Ham

Top scorer Carlton Cole has sufficiently recovered from the knee injury sustained against Burnley in November to earn a place on the substitute's bench, boosting Gianfranco Zola's options.

But Zola is likely to keep faith in the youngsters who served him well in his side's last outing against Aston Villa a week ago last Sunday, with Frank Nouble likely to start once again.

Despite the promise of transfer cash from the new owners Zola has not yet augmented his squad, although Blackburn striker Benni McCarthy is rumoured to be close to joining.

Without a game in 10 days Zola's men must shake off any rustiness as they look to pull away from the relegation zone.

Herita Ilunga remains doubtful with a hamstring problem, which means Jon Spector could retain his place at left-back.

Also ruled out are Guille Franco, Danny Gabbidon, Kieran Dyer, Zavon Hines, Luis Boa Morte and Calum Davenport.

The two sides last met at Upton Park on Boxing Day, with the Irons recording a 2-0 win. A repeat of that scoreline would be very welcome this evening.

West Ham (from): Green, Kurucz, Faubert, Spector, Tomkins, Upson, Daprela, Da Costa, Kovac, Noble, Parker, Behrami, Stanislas, Diamanti, Collison, Jiminez, Sears, Nouble, Cole.

Venue: Fratton Park, Portsmouth

Kick off: 7.45pm

Referee: Andre Marriner