Thomas wants U's to capitalise on Pompey home form
The Blues have taken just two points at Fratton Park in 2018 – compared to nine on their travels.
Kenny Jackett’s men actually headed into the turn of the year on the back of six-successive victories on home soil.
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Hide AdYet the tide has turned, with disappointing Pompey booed off in the past two Fratton fixtures, both ending in defeat.
On Sunday, the U’s venture to the south-coast in League One with new boss Karl Robinson at the helm.
For Thomas, it will be a return to the club were he scored three times in seven loan appearances under Michael Appleton in 2012-13.
And he’s hoping Oxford can capitalise on the hosts’ present lean spell.
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Hide AdHe told the Oxford Times: ‘When I was there they were a really decent crowd.
‘I don’t think I’ve been there when they’ve got on the players’ backs or anything. They have always been really supportive.
‘They will probably be a 12th man for them, but the home form hasn’t been great and there will probably be a few nerves for their players.
‘Hopefully, we can take advantage of that.’
Following Pep Clotet’s sacking in January, assistant head coach Derek Fazackerley had stepped up to serve as caretaker.
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Hide AdHis eight-game spell yielded only two wins, although they defeated Peterborough 2-1 last weekend.
It leaves the U’s currently in 16th place – a disappointing position having finished within three points of the play-offs last season.
Yet, in recent times, Fratton Park has proven a profitable visit for the club, with Oxford undefeated since the 1997-98 campaign.
The most notable visiting triumph was in the opening match of the 2013-14 season, when a Pompey under fan ownership and Guy Whittingham suffered a 4-1 reverse.
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Hide AdFazackerley added: ‘The result against Peterborough was pleasing for everyone because we have come under a little bit of pressure, certainly in the home games.
‘We’re going to Portsmouth in a game that’s on TV. There will be a massive audience, hopefully, and it’s a place we’ve done well.
‘Hopefully, there will be a good atmosphere, a 16-17,000 crowd, and it’s a great place to play.
‘I think Portsmouth, like us, have suffered a little bit at home recently and the pressure’s on them.’