Boss knows Wembley is close
The Johnstone’s Paint Trophy is the only cup competition that Pompey are still involved in.
They exited the Capital One Cup at Bournemouth in August, while Saturday’s defeat to Stevenage ended any hopes of a run in the FA Cup.
But Guy Whittingham insists that Tuesday’s tie against Newport has not gained any more significance because of those previous losses.
Pompey head to south Wales looking to book their spot in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy area semi-finals.
And Whittingham knows that victory would mean a place in March’s Wembley final is tantalisingly close.
The Blues boss said: “The game remains just as important to us as it did last week.
“After we finished preparing for Stevenage we turned our attentions to Newport late last week and, as always, the intention is to go and get a result.
“Newport are a good attacking side who like to get forward and will try to create dangerous situations by getting crosses into our box.
“That is nothing less than I would expect from a Justin Edinburgh side, having played with him at Fratton Park.
“He has put together an extremely competitive side and Tuesday will be another battle for us.
“Newport still have momentum from a great campaign last season and that is when you can be at your most effective.
“We certainly have the belief that we can go there and win, but our players will have to show plenty of desire.
“At this stage of the competition most clubs left in will think they have a realistic chance of getting to Wembley and we are no different.”
Pompey are 17/10 to beat Newport with Sky Bet and if you open an account and deposit before the end of November, the club receives £10. Join now.