Saints 'will mix it' with Pompey

The team have become known for an attractive brand of attacking football but do have a strong spine to the team.

Adkins is adamant that if the need arises in the cauldron atmosphere that will be Fratton Park, his team will roll up their sleeves and scrap for a result – if that is what is required.

“The plan is simply to keep doing what we are good at,” he said.

“We can mix it if we have to and the players are adaptable. If things are not going well they have to grab the problem by the throat.”

Adkins, like Pompey boss Michael Appleton, will be facing his first south coast derby and is no doubt in for a surprise when the talking stops and he tastes it for real.

“There is sure to be a great atmosphere for a special occasion with both sets of fans desperate to win,” he reckoned.

“There will be many more Portsmouth supporters of course but our fans always make a hell of a lot of noise and are sure to make themselves heard.

“Our fans will be hoping for a win so they can have the bragging rights until the return match and I’m sure both sets of fans will enjoy it.

“The rivalry stretches back a long way .“This is one of many big games coming up for us. We must control our emotions and we are not going in blind.

“We had a little spell in the last month where we have not had the results we wanted but we go to Pompey three points ahead at the top of the table. You can’t ask for more.

“From the day I joined people have been coming up to me and saying you must beat Pompey.

“As a football manager it is the sort of match you want to be involved in.

“This is no time to get carried away. You have to be calm and professional and embrace the occasion.

“The players are looking forward to it as much as I am.”

Adkins also believes that Appleton will do a good job for Portsmouth – but hopes to get one over on him today.

“Michael Appleton has a big future.

“He has to stamp his philosophy on the club but it takes time to do that and it’s a case of slow but sure.”