Ellis Harrison gives verdict on whether he can link up with fellow Portsmouth striker John Marquis

And the striker feels the pair have already shown they can work together to help Pompey to success.

The pair are both looking for places in Kenny Jackett’s starting XI as their side bid for a place in the FA Cup fifth round against Barnsley on Saturday.

Marquis will be looking to add to his return of four goals in five games, while Harrison has nine goals to his name this term.

It’s the summer arrival from Ipswich who’s been favoured in the number nine role through Pompey’s upturn in fortunes, while Marquis has adapted to playing a deeper role in Kenny Jackett’s preferred 4-2-3-1 formation.

Harrison sees no reason why the pairing can’t both be effective in the same side.

He said: ‘We’ve played a lot of games over Christmas and John has scored quite a few goals and got some assists.

‘I’ve scored a few goals in that time, too.

‘I think we work well together.

‘But we can’t say I should be playing in that position. We’re not the boss.

‘The boss picks the team and you play well to keep the shirt. It’s down to the manager then.

‘It’s not down to us to choose who’s playing.

‘With me and John it doesn’t matter who’s playing. It’s more about winning.’

It’s been a steady flow of goals for Harrison this term but he’s currently on a run of one finish from eight games.

The 25-year-old is unconcerned about that, though, with Pompey’s overall fortunes looking up after two defeats in 20 games.

Harrison added: ‘I used to be bothered a few years ago about it, but I’m not now. I want promotions.

‘If I score one goal and we get promotion, it’s a promotion for everyone.

‘If you’re not scoring as much as you want of course it’s disappointing. But being part of the team is the big thing.

‘If I score 30 goals and we come 10th what good is it? If I score 10 and we go up then I’d be a lot happier.’