The wait is nearly over as Leeds United are just days away from returning to Championship action for the new season.
Leeds play host to newly promoted Portsmouth on Saturday, with both teams looking to kickstart their campaign at Elland Road.
It marks another important season for Daniel Farke and The Whites, following last season’s failed attempt to win promotion to the Premier League.
The Leeds boss will be hoping it is second time lucky in the Championship, or else he faces the possibility of an exit.
The opening-day clash with Portsmouth will mark their return to the second tier for the first time since 2012.
John Mousinho’s side topped League One last season and will now be looking to establish themselves back in the Championship.
So how has his side been shaping up for the task ahead? Here’s a look at everything you need to know ahead of Leeds v Portsmouth.
Portsmouth confirmed transfers 2024/25
Over the summer, Portsmouth have lost an experienced core of players that included Joe Rafferty, Sean Raggett and Lee Evans.
Promising left-back Jack Sparkes also left for a fee to join Peterborough United, coming as one of their major exits.
In terms of strengthening for the return to the second tier, Pompey have added some experienced squad options in Josh Murphy and goalkeeper Jordan Archer.
Both full-back positions have been strengthened with right-back Jordan Williams joining from Barnsley on a free transfer, while their policy of signings from the A-League continued with landing left-back Jacob Farrell from Central Coast Mariners.
Wingers Elias Sorensen from Esbjorg and Sam Silvera on loan from Middlesbrough round out their business so far.
Portsmouth pre-season results
Pre-season for Portsmouth has been something of a mixed bag of performances and results to judge.
Victories against Gosport Borough, Havant and Waterlooville, and Bognor Regis Town kickstarted their preparations.
However, a draw with MK Dons and a defeat to Charlton has left a slightly sour end to the preparations for the campaign.
Portsmouth injury news latest
Portsmouth have been handed several injury concerns over the past few weeks that will likely impact the start of their season.
Striker Colby Bishop is set to miss the start of the season at the very least as he prepares for heart surgery, following a concern picked up by the medical staff.
Former Reading defender Tom McIntyre has been ruled out of the opening clash with Leeds after suffering a hamstring issue.
New signing Farrell will also be an absentee after picking up a knock to the knee in a recent training session.
Fellow newcomer Murphy is a doubt after receiving a strong challenge in their recent friendly against Charlton.
What Leeds United can expect from Portsmouth opener
Portsmouth were the standout team in League One last season, looking comfortably promoted weeks before it was confirmed.
Under Mousinho, the side have created a fine balance between defensive stability and an attacking style of play.
Last season, Pompey scored 78 goals and conceded just 41 in their 46 league matches, accruing 97 points.
The south coast side would often start in a 4-2-3-1, with emphasis on full-backs playing a key role in the attacking phase.
Kusini Yengi is likely to be the key attacking threat for Portsmouth up front, though the loss of key loanees such as Abu Kamara and Alex Robertson may well be felt.
Receive a digest of our best Leeds content each week direct to your mailbox
