Portsmouth boss gives update on possible friendlies with likes of Brighton, Bournemouth and Reading ahead of restart

Kenny Jackett remains hopeful Pompey will be able to find warm-up opposition ahead of a likely return to action.
Pompey boss Kenny JackettPompey boss Kenny Jackett
Pompey boss Kenny Jackett

The EFL released a statement yesterday declaring the 2019-20 League One season would be curtailed if 51 per cent of teams agreed to it.

While the league still favours an outcome that would see all remaining fixtures fulfilled, positions would be decided by an unweighted points-per-game system should the majority of clubs decide against carrying on.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Promotion and relegation would still apply, with a traditional four-team play-off remaining in place instead of a mooted extended tournament.

Christian Burgess in pre-season action against Bournemouth in 2017. PictureL Shaun BoggustChristian Burgess in pre-season action against Bournemouth in 2017. PictureL Shaun Boggust
Christian Burgess in pre-season action against Bournemouth in 2017. PictureL Shaun Boggust

The Blues would therefore face Oxford in one semi-final and meet either Wycombe or Fleetwood in the final at a neutral venue.

The victors would then join Coventry and Rotherham in the Championship.

Jackett's troops haven’t been in action since their 2-2 draw against Fleetwood at Fratton Park on March 10.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Prior to a return to competitive action, the Pompey boss believes organising friendlies will form a key part of their preparations.

And with the Premier League and Championship both set to resume their campaigns, facing nearby clubs like Bournemouth, Brighton and Reading remain possibilities.

Jackett said: ‘When we do go back, if there are other divisions running parallel to where we are then there will be friendlies available.

‘I’d still be hopeful that we would be able to get on with something.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

‘I’ve spoken to a few people who would be in the same boat as ourselves.

‘There would be some clubs you have to avoid as you might be playing them.

‘But if there are other divisions running along at the same time then teams would need friendlies.

‘I’m still hopeful that will still be the case. There’d be a few options and you'd like to think they'll be in the same situation where they’ll need the game.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

‘So, yes, it is one of those things that we definitely could organise.’

Pompey have faced Brighton in behind-closed-doors games over the past two summers.

The Blues also faced Bournemouth at Fratton Park ahead of the 2017-18 season.

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.