PORTSMOUTH FOOTBALL CLUB

Paul Cook has made no secret about his priorities this season.

With a growing desire to exit the fourth tier, sweeping changes have been made for EFL Cup and Checkatrade Trophy matches.

But it is a different story ahead of Saturday’s clash with Wycombe in the most historic – and arguably best-loved – domestic competition.

Pompey progressed to the fourth round of the Emirates FA Cup last season and Cook is hoping that the 2008 champions can embark on another run.

The Blues boss said: “It’s a competition that we want to do well in, although it’s a difficult tie.

“There was a groan when the draw was made and that’s because we know Wycombe will be tough. I’m sure they would say the same about us.

“I’ve got great respect for them because with the resources Gareth Ainsworth has to work with, they always manage to pull up trees.

“I don’t think the league meeting earlier in the season has any relevance, but the first half was some of the best football we’ve seen at Fratton Park this season.

“They’ll come here with a game-plan that we’ll have to deal with and we’re determined to win the tie and go through.

“The FA Cup is special and that’s always the case with games at Fratton Park, so it’s a tie we’re very much looking forward to.

“Pompey have enjoyed great days out at Wembley because of the competition and they’ll live long in the memory.

“It was a good run last season and we never should have lost at Bournemouth. We were excellent for about 60 minutes.

“I’d like to make it through to the third round ideally and get a draw that gives the fans a really good game to be excited about.”

Cook is without the suspended Amine Linganzi and Michael Doyle against Wanderers, but has no injury concerns.

He said: “There will be a few changes – although a couple of them are forced upon us – but the side will reflect how seriously we’re treating the competition. It will be a strong Pompey team.”