Returning defender throws down Portsmouth challenge

And the defender has expressed relief there's a quick chance to put a first league defeat of the season to bed tonight.

The trip to the Broadfield Stadium in the Checkatrade Trophy is the fourth of five games in a 15-day period for Kenny Jackett's men.

After their 11-game unbeaten run in League One came to an end against Gillingham, the challenge from the former Spurs man is to now start a similar sequence.

Walkes said: '˜The games are flying at us in quick succession now and we've got to be ready.

'˜You have to identify the problems and look over them. We have to have responsibility as a team for that.

'˜But it's a long season and there's nothing like people turning against each other or anything like that.

'˜We're a great team and we're together. One loss isn't going to turn into a bad patch all of a sudden.

'˜We can get back now and get another good spell going.

'˜Once you pick up momentum it stays in your favour. So that's the aim right now '“ to get back on it.'

Walkes is one of the players set to come into the equation following six games out after picking up a groin injury, as Jackett freshens his side up. 

He added: '˜Those playing can clear their heads and some players can sit back and get their bodies right.

'˜The games are coming thick and fast, so when Saturday or Tuesday comes you have to make sure your mind and body is right.' 

             - JORDAN CROSS