I know it’s only December and it’s way too early to talk about “must win” games, but I think Portsmouth are exactly in so called “must win” situation here.

Portsmouth are in big troubles. They are still rock bottom of English Premier League, with only 7 points after 14 games, while their already difficult situation wasn’t helped with news that players still haven’t received their November salaries.

Good news from Pompey camp is that England keeper David James is in line for a return much earlier than expected, while Papa Bouba Diop and Steve Finnan are also on their way to return. Younes Kaboul is suspended though.

There’s nothing great about Pompey this season, but they welcome Burnley, who are usually all over the place when playing away from Turf Moor. All they managed on the road this season is 3-3 draw against Manchester City, but usually they tend to allow too many goals on the road and that’s the reason they usually end without any points – even though they score quite a lot – they scored 8 goals in 7 road games, which is more than most of Premier League teams scored away from home.

Their scoring abilities will be weakened by the absence of David Nugent, who’s on load from Portsmouth and can’t play as a part of the deal, while their already chaotic defense will be without skipper Steve Caldwell.

I believe Portsmouth are capable to win tomorrow. If they are going to survive in Premiership this season they simply have to win games like this and I’m sure their new boss Avram Grant will do his utmost to explain this to his players.

Do I believe Pompey are worth a bet? Honestly, I don’t think there’s any value in 1.90 for Portsmouth win, but I guess they’re going to win this one. On the other hand 4.50 for Burnley is probably better value, but I can’t say I’m really excited about that one neither, so I’m going to skip this one.