Portsmouth boss Kenny Jackett gives verdict on part previous flashpoints will play as Sunderland rivalry is renewed
and live on Freeview channel 276
Pompey travel north to face the Black Cats tomorrow in the clash of the two favourites for the League One title this season.
The Blues will renew acquaintances with Jack Ross’ men after five see-saw clashes last term including the Wembley Chekatrade Trophy final and play-off showdowns.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdJackett insisted there’s no lingering issues on the part of his squad, however, and those past flashpoints will not in his players’ thoughts.
He said: ‘I don’t think it will be on anyone’s minds going up there
‘It’s a fresh season and it’s certainly not on mine.
‘It’s a different season and my team are doing well.
‘They are a massive club and will be one of the contenders, we know that.
‘Atmosphere, crowd and a TV game. Terrific.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide Ad‘Each game is different and I don’t think there will be anything carried over from last year, not from our end anyway.’
The usual match preparation will be undertaken, but the Pompey boss feels the focus should be on the damage his team can cause.
He added: ‘We will obviously do a section on the opposition and let’s say the game, the occasion and the early kick-off, crowd etc.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide Ad‘After that, 70 or 80 per cent of my preparation is on my own team being a force in the division. Let’s work towards doing that.
‘We should look forward with enthusiasm but we want to come out of it looking like a good team and a side who are capable of performing well.
‘It’s a game we look forward to and it’s a TV game as well.
‘Both sides are slightly different to where they were last season and sides do evolve.
‘We’ve lost a couple of big players but we feel we’ve gained some strengths as well.
‘It’s a hard game and a good game, but Sunderland away on the TV is a game to look forward to.’
Comment Guidelines
National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.