Kenny Jackett knows all about the highs and lows that a match at Wembley can provide.
He was part of the Watford side that lost to Everton in the 1984 FA Cup final, playing the full 90 minutes of a 2-0 defeat.
There was a better outcome in 2010, however, when he led Millwall to promotion by seeing off Swindon in the League One play-off final.
Now Jackett is hoping he can guide Pompey to victory against Sunderland in Sunday’s Checkatrade Trophy final.
The Blues boss said: “I’ve been fortunate enough to go to Wembley as a player, coach and manager – it’s always a great occasion.
“You always want to be in a final and should be pleased to make it because everyone wants to be there.
"We want to take the chance because getting the chance to play – or manage – at Wembley is as good as it gets and something to be proud of."
“That’s true of any competition and I’m certainly no different. The further you progress, the higher the disappointment if you don’t win.
“We want to take the chance because getting the chance to play – or manage – at Wembley is as good as it gets and something to be proud of.”
Pompey and Sunderland are both involved in the battle for promotion, but Jackett will put that to one side this weekend and is looking forward to leading his side out in front of 80,000 spectators.
He said: “Both clubs have a lot to play for in the league, but will still be desperate for the win on Sunday.
“They’re so well-supported and it makes it even more of a great occasion that we should look forward to. We have to enjoy the challenge.
“It’s unique for the third tier and it’s such an appeal for everyone. It’s two teams close together in the league and with aspirations of reaching the Championship.
“We’ve always said that promotion is our priority, but this competition has been a great attraction and it’s taken seven games to get here, so it hasn’t been easy.
“There have been the likes of Spurs and Arsenal under-21s to playing Southend and Bury, so we’ve done well to get this opportunity.”
Due to staff working at Wembley on Sunday, supporters should note that the Anson Road ticket office will be closed on Monday. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.