Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp could recall Kanu to his team for the Barclays Premiership match against Tottenham Hotspur on New Year's day.
The Nigerian striker was rested yesterday in the 3-1 defeat by Bolton at the Reebok Stadium.
Portuguese star Manuel Fernandes is highly unlikely to retain his place, because - with his loan expiring 24 hours later - if he were to play in a third consecutive Premiership match a £12million buy-out clause could be activated.
Tottenham striker Dimitar Berbatov was on the bench for the defeat against Liverpool with a fever but is expected to be fit for the clash at Fratton Park.
Berbatov's place against Liverpool was taken by Mido, who lasted nearly an hour despite his recent groin problems.
Skipper Ledley King is doubtful after suffering a bruised foot, while Robbie Keane (knee) and Jermaine Jenas (ankle) remain out of contention.
Aaron Lennon has missed the last five games with inflammation to the knee but was close to returning to the squad for the Liverpool game.
Provisional Portsmouth squad: James, Johnson, Primus, Campbell, Pamarot, O'Neil, Mendes, Davis, Taylor, Benjani, Ashdown, O'Brien, Griffin, Krancjar, Hughes, Thompson, Kanu, Cole, Douala.
Provisional Tottenham Hotspur squad: Robinson, Chimbonda, Lee, Dawson, Davenport, Zokora, Huddlestone, Malbranque, Ghaly, Defoe, Berbatov, Mido, Cerny, Murphy, Ziegler, Gardner, Lennon, Davids, Tainio, Stalteri, Assou-Ekotto.
