Portsmouth wary of Oli Hawkins' threat as Joe Gallen explains why striker was released before joining FA Cup opponents Ipswich

Kenny Jackett's side travel to their League One promotion rivals the weekend beginning Friday, November 6.

Just one berth currently separates the fourth-placed Tractor Boys and fifth-placed Pompey in the table.

The Blues will come up against a familiar face in Hawkins after he moved to Portman Road following his departure from Fratton Park in July.

The ex-Dagenham man scored 18 goals in 96 appearances during his three years on the south coast.

But Pompey didn't offer him fresh terms at the end of his contract in July and he subsequently joined Ipswich on a free transfer.

Gallen explained the Blues thought Hawkins needed to start playing regular football at the age of 28, having featured only 12 times in his final campaign at PO4.

And Pompey will need to be on their mettle to thwart the big hitman.

Gallen told The News: ‘It's a big game isn't it, probably one of the biggest in the first-round draw.

‘We missed out on going there last season because of the virus so it looks like we'll get to go there twice this season.

‘Ipswich have started the season very well, are a big club and it's a tough one for us.

‘But we are doing pretty well away from home so we look forward to it.

‘Looking at the draw and the way it developed, it could have been worse. I was pretty pleased South Shields went, if I'm honest!

‘We've watched Ipswich a few times. They've made a really good start. Although they didn't win at Lincoln at the weekend, they've made a good start and will be looking to get out of the division as we are.

‘Oli had three seasons with us and had a particularly strong second season – especially in the first half of the season.

‘He was a very popular person around the training ground, a very good player and it'll be good to see him.

‘With Oli and particularly in his third season, he didn't play a lot of games.

‘He'd recently started a family and was looking to play, really. His age dictated that he needed to start playing games regularly and that's not something we could guarantee him.

‘He's gone to a really big club and it proved how well he did for us.

‘I have got a lot of time for Oli and spent a lot of time working with him. He's a really nice bloke, did really well, always gave his all and let's not forget his winning penalty in the Checkatrade Trophy final.’

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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