Lincoln boss Michael Appleton: Portsmouth could finish in top two - and their fans can be instrumental

And the Lincoln boss insists there is ‘no reason’ why the Blues cannot claim a top-two place in League One.

Appleton watched his Imps side defeated 2-0 on Tuesday night, ending a run of five successive home victories.

Indeed, among the League One teams the Lincolnshire side have triumphed over at Sincil Bank this season are Fleetwood, Sunderland, Ipswich, Wycombe and Blackpool.

They couldn’t, however, conquer Pompey, the club Appleton served as manager until departing in November 2012.

That win ensured Kenny Jackett’s men broke into the top six for the first time this season, positioning themselves six points off leaders Rotherham.

And, having twice lost to the Blues this term, Appleton considers them as top-two material.

He said: ‘There is no reason why Pompey can’t finish in the top two.

‘I would imagine with their home games the fans can make a difference going forward. I have experienced it myself at Fratton Park, the atmosphere can be incredible.

‘So going forward, why not (promotion), create a bit of momentum and keep going, they are still in two cup competitions.

‘The league is obviously very competitive and there is no-one really running away with it, like we’ve had in previous season.

‘Looking at Pompey, they are obviously really well organised and have some good players at the top end of the pitch which can win games, obviously with the quality of the (Ronan Curtis’) free-kick.

‘The quality of some of the crosses which come into the box also make you know you are up against a decent side.

‘It was a tough game for us, but a game up until the goal there was nothing in it whatsoever.’

Lincoln are now 13th in League One, although tantalisingly just seven points adrift of the play-off spots.

Appleton added: ‘It looks like it’s probably 8-10 clubs who really fancy their chances of being in the play-offs.

‘While, with the bigger clubs, the one thing I have certainly have found is their strength of depth really stands out.’