Portsmouth's League One rivals Sunderland looking for 'psychological' boost in title race
Kenny Jackett's table-toppers will be knocked off the summit should the Black Cats '“ the Blues' nearest rivals '“ overcome Wycombe Wanderers at home on Saturday.
Pompey are without a game this weekend, after their scheduled meeting with Charlton at Fratton Park was postponed because of the number of Addicks players on international duty.
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Hide AdThat means Sunderland, currently three points behind in second place, will go top on goal difference should they beat Wycombe.
The Blues' goal difference currently sits at +14, with Sunderland on +19.
And Black Cats boss Ross believes it would give his side a well-timed boost in their bid to claim the title.
He told chroniclelive.com: 'It would be a step forward, psychologically it would be be other good reward for the players.
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Hide Ad'The size of the club means we have been there to be shot at all season, so I don't think it makes much difference.
'The only time it really matters is the latter stage of the season.Â
'It would be a nice boost for us to go that extra place and lead from the front.Â
'We want to be top, I have never shied away from that from day one of being here.
'That's not because I think we have a divine right to be there, every game has been incredibly difficult.'