Lawless starts against Pompey

The Welshman has been in impressive form coming off the bench in recent weeks after regaining full fitness, while Andy Drury was also recalled, with Jonathan Smith and Scott Griffiths missing out.

Elliot Justham remained in goal for Mark Tyler, with former Pompey striker Paul Benson named on the bench for the first time since breaking his leg against Mansfield on November 29.

The hosts made just one change to the side that drew 1-1 against Accrington last weekend, with Andy Barcham replacing Josh Passley.

Pompey: Paul Jones, Jack Whatmough, Joe Devara, Andy Barcham, Jed Wallace, Ryan Taylor, Matt Tubbs, Paul Robinson (C), James Dunne, Danny Hollands, Dan Butler.

Subs not used: Alex Bass, Adam Webster, Danny East, Wes Fogden, Craig Westcarr, Nigel Atangana, Conor Chaplin.

Hatters: Elliot Justham, Michael Harriman, Jake Howells, Steve McNulty (C), Luke Wilkinson, Cameron McGeehan, Andy Drury, Luke Guttridge, Alex Lawless, Luke Guttridge, Mark Cullen.

Subs not used: Craig King, Fraser Franks, Paul Benson, Jayden Stockley, Matthew Robinson, Jayden Stockley, Nathan Oduwa, Elliot Lee.