Like many League 2 clubs, the trip to Fratton Park was one of the first Morecambe fans, players and staff looked for when the fixtures were released ahead of the new season.

Both sides are yet to get going in the league with the Shrimps' success coming in the Capital One Cup.

After knocking out Wolves live on Sky, the TV cameras will be returning to the Globe Arena on August 28 for the visit of Newcastle in what is being billed as the club's biggest game since they were promoted to the Football League for the first time at Wembley back in 2007.

Wembley-winning skipper turned manager Jim Bentley has had to work on a reduced budget this summer after a 16th-placed finish last year with senior pros being replaced with younger players, either with a point to prove or looking to establish themselves in the Football League.

A small squad has already been hit by injuries with last season's top scorer Jack Redshaw out until at least December after hip surgery.

Two forwards could return at Fratton Park however, with Kevin Ellison and Marcus Marshall in line to return from hamstring injuries.

Left back Robbie Threlfall could also feature after a thigh injury.

The Shrimps have a habit of playing above themselves when it comes to facing the bigger sides in the Football League's bottom tier and their first trip to the south coast has all the hallmarks of being one of those days.

Short on numbers and with the pressure off, Bentley will be more than happy that the majority expect his side to return north still looking for their first win of the season.

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