New signing hungry for another promotion
Drew Talbot knows all about winning promotion from League Two.
The affable Yorkshireman was part of Paul Cook’s Chesterfield squad who won the title two seasons ago.
And now he is intent on completing the same mission at Fratton Park after signing a two-year deal with the Blues.
“The challenge is very simple,” Talbot revealed. “I have come here to be promoted – having done it twice already with Sheffield Wednesday and Chesterfied. One of the reasons for me being here is to get a third on my CV.
“The magnitude of this club means that they shouldn’t really be in this league and although I had some offers closer to home, once Pompey came in for me I knew it was something I wanted to be a part of.
“I know this is a difficult league to get out of and if you are a good team, the opposition will try to neutralise the way you play.
“It’s up to us to break down other teams and that is a challenge that I am very much looking forward to.
“With Chesterfield there was a stage when we were something like 18 points clear, but only secured promotion on the final day, so it’s tough.
“It is a wrench to leave there after seven-and-a-half years and I have nothing but fond memories, but the time is right for a new challenge.
“I have played in front of big crowds before at Sheffield Wednesday and performing in front of 17,000 fans is something you should enjoy, not get nervous about.
“If you can’t thrive on attendances and supporters like that then you shouldn’t be in the game.”
Talbot is normally deployed in a full-back role, but his versatility means that he is equally comfortable in midfield and can even play up front.
“Probably the only position I haven’t played is in goal,” he joked. “I’ve been fortunate enough throughout my career to be used in a number of positions, but I’m predominantly a right-back.
“I’m very much an attacking full-back and some may say this leaves you vulnerable, but often attack can be the best form of defence.
“Apart from getting up and down the wing, I like a tackle and won’t be shirking them – when I come off the pitch I like to know I have given absolutely everything.”
Talbot is also looking forward to teaming up with his old Chesterfield boss Cook and assistant Leam Richardson on the south coast.
He said: “Paul is a very demanding manager and has a certain way of playing and training – it’s an attitude I like.”
Watch Talbot speak about his Pompey move below or subscribe to Pompey PlayerHD for the full interview.