Portsmouth assistant gives frank verdict on potential promotion behind closed doors

But the assistant boss insisted the Blues will be doing all they can to go up to the Championship when the season recommences.

The coronavirus crisis means it’s highly probable spectators won't be allowed to attend any of Kenny Jackett’s side’s nine remaining League One fixtures.

EFL chairman Rick Parry confirmed last week that matches will restart behind closed doors.

Pompey sit fourth in the table and two points outside the automatic promotion places.

Should a return to the Championship be achieved, the likelihood is the Fratton faithful won't be present to celebrate the feat.

Gallen heaped praise on the backing fans have given the Blues this term.

And he conceded it would be a strange feeling if Pompey were to go up without the ‘lifeblood’ of the club in the stands.

Gallen said: ‘The favourite at the moment seems to be behind closed doors.

‘If that's what it is to get a conclusion to the season then so be it but, let’s be honest, it just won't be the same.

‘It won’t feel the same without the supporters and, in particular, our supporters.

‘The passion they have for their city and their team is second to none.

‘It just won't be the same because every game at Fratton Park is like an event and virtually sold out.

‘The atmosphere is brilliant and you look forward to it all the time.

‘But if that's what we’re asked to do then we’ll try to win the games.

‘No way, though, will it feel the same or be the same – it won’t feel right without the supporters.

‘They’re the lifeblood of every club and team in the country at any level – none more so than Pompey.

‘If we were to go up then I’d take it and it’d be great. But as the whistle goes, I'd just feel like jumping in the car and going home because it won’t feel right.’

Uefa have lifted the Saturday 3pm kick-off blackout for the rest of the season to allow games to be broadcast live.

That would allow fans to watch the finale of the season - but Gallen would still feel for them.

He added: ‘I’d feel for fans not being able to be there.

‘I always consider everyone else ahead of myself so if they were happy then I’d feel great.

‘For them not to be there and experience it, though, it would be horrible.’