Dons clash will be easy on the eye

But the Blues manager admits his team may have to sacrifice possession for one of the few times this season tomorrow.

Appleton feels Karl Robinson’s side will look to play an expansive game.

But he believes there is the quality and pace in his team to negate that threat.

Appleton said: ‘The players will go in to the game knowing they are facing a team who are going to get promoted or will finish in the top six.

‘We know with them being at home and the way they play, their patient play, they will probably have more possession.

‘That will be new to our players but we play the right way and can hit teams on the counter because we have pace in the side as well.’

n Brian Howard will be the guest of the next meeting of the Pompey Supporters’ Club Central Branch.

The Blues captain will be present at the Pitch Side Restaurant at Fratton Park on Monday, October 15.

Taking place at 7.30pm, it is a members-only event, although fans can join on the night.