Defender confident about Pompey's Newport chances
Sonny Bradley believes Pompey can battle their way to victory at Newport tonight.
The Blues travel to south Wales for a Johnstone’s Paint Trophy area quarter-final clash.
Newport are six places and three points better off than Pompey in the League Two table.
But Bradley believes the Blues can move a step closer to a place in the Wembley final.
The defender said: “It’s now the only cup that it’s possible for us to win and I’m sure we’ll be up for it because getting to Wembley is only a few matches away.
“It will be one of those games that will be a battle, but we have to go there with plenty of confidence.
“I would certainly back us as favourites against any side from the same division.
“If we can match Newport’s work-rate – or even beat it – then we can definitely get through to the next round.
“If we want to do well this season then we have to work harder than every other team – if we do that then I think our ability will shine through.”
Defeat at Stevenage in the FA Cup on Saturday was Pompey’s first since the end of September and Bradley is confident about the rest of the season.
He said: “I still think that we have one of the best squads in the division and the manager has some good choices to make.
“We’ve had a difficult start to the season and it’s been a bit hit and miss, but it’s starting to pick up now.”
Pompey will be without the suspended duo of Gavin Mahon and Jed Wallace against Newport, while Thery Racon (hip) and Simon Ferry (hamstring) are also out.
Bradley is 28/1 with Sky Bet to open the scoring tonight and if you open an account and deposit before the end of November, Pompey will get a £10 bonus. Join now.