Boss to make changes for Reading cup tie
Paul Cook will ring the changes for Pompey’s Capital One Cup clash with Reading on Tuesday night.
But he still believes that the side he picks can knock out Championship opposition for the second round in succession.
There were seven changes to the starting 11 when Derby were dumped out at Fratton Park a fortnight ago.
And Cook will utilise his squad once more, with one eye on Saturday’s League Two trip to Luton.
The Blues boss said: “We’ve got a very strong squad and a lot of players are chomping at the bit to play.
“They all think that they should be in the team and I don’t disagree with some of the arguments.
“It’s important that we prepare properly, although we don’t mind saying that the league is very much our priority.
“That’s where we most want to have our success, although it doesn’t necessarily mean we can’t have success in other competitions.
“As a manager, you’re not going to put a team out on the pitch that you don’t think will be able to do themselves justice.”
Reading’s sole taste of success this season came in their extra-time win at Colchester in the first round, but Cook is not taking them lightly.
He said: “We’ve got another quality Championship side coming here and it should be an entertaining game – one I’m really looking forward to.
“When you get two teams who want to engage in the match and play football then it should make for a good contest.
“We’ve watched some of their matches and they like to pass and move, so it’ll be tough for us.”
Watch Cook's views on the game below or to subscribe to Pompey PlayerHD for the full interview.
Watch Cook's views on the game below or to subscribe to Pompey PlayerHD for the full interview.