Clarke: Checkatrade changes show importance to Portsmouth

The Blues picked up a 4-0 victory at Fratton Park, despite making 10 changes from the team who defeated Plymouth at the weekend.

Clarke was the only man to remain in the team from the weekend, as players staked their claim for continued inclusion.

He said: '˜The fans haven't taken to the Checkatrade Trophy for whatever reason, but for the lads playing they like it and need the games.

'˜It's important they have those games so if they take the step into the team on the Saturday through injury or whatever they are ready.

'˜If the gaffer wants to make a sub or a change you can soon go from playing on a Tuesday in this to being in the team on Saturday.'