Kenny Jackett's verdict on Portsmouth players' attitudes after their character is questioned

But the Pompey boss admitted now is the time for his men to show their mental strength, as they come under pressure following a slow start to the season.

Jackett and his players have found themselves roundly criticised after a winless opening to the League One campaign, following on from last season play-off disappointment.

Both the attitude of individuals within the team and a lack of leadership was under the microscope, after last weekend’s home defeat to Wigan.

Jackett’s conviction over his men in unwavering, however.

He said: ‘I have belief in them the season ahead is going to be a good one.

‘It’s a balance of character and ability, definitely. You always need those two things.

‘Ability on its own is never enough. There will be a time when things go well and it’s okay, but there’s time when you also need character just as much as ability.

‘It’s a combination of both as individuals, but mainly as a team and a group as well.

‘Confidence is hard earned can easily drip away, but similarly I have confidence in the players.

‘There’s a talented squad and I feel there’s good character in the squad as well.’

The challenge for Pompey is to now give a response to the doubters as they look for their first league win at Burton Albion.

Jackett feels a maiden success will see confidence return to the his ranks.

He added: ‘In terms of winning games, you have to win to build confidence.

‘It can easily fall away, but there’s also another game you have to work towards in terms of experience, belief and battling back.

‘They are things you do need in abundance to be successful, and we have that here.

‘In terms of performance we haven’t hit the heights yet.

‘Ability, character and the team gelling are going to be big things going into this weekend.’

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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