New signings Adam Buxton and Noel Hunt are in line to make their debuts for Portsmouth as they prepare for another promotion push against Carlisle.

Defender Buxton and former Republic of Ireland international Hunt penned one-year deals on Thursday, while Pompey boss Paul Cook is boosted by the returns of Jack Whatmough, Adam Barton and Gareth Evans.

But new signing Matt Clarke (groin) and Brandon Haunstrup (collarbone) remain sidelined.

Meanwhile, Ben Close misses out with a hamstring injury for the clash at Fratton Park.

Carlisle are unlikely to risk striker Jabo Ibehre for the long trip south.

The veteran forward has a knee problem that manager Keith Curle is eager not to aggravate, leaving the way open for Shaun Miller to lead the line.

Miller joined the Cumbrians from Morecambe in the summer, as did Jamie Devitt, who could also line up on the wing.

There is a decision to make over defender Shaun Brisley, who hurt his ankle in training and is touch and go, but there should be debuts for Nicky Adams, Mike Jones and Reggie Lambe.