Skip to main content Skip to site footer
Fixture News

Mousinho: There's a Buzz

Boss looks ahead to Port Vale test

24 March 2023

John Mousinho
Photo: Jason Brown/Pro Sports Images
Fixture News

Mousinho: There's a Buzz

Boss looks ahead to Port Vale test

24 March 2023

Pompey can close the gap on the play-off places to just four points with victory over Port Vale this weekend.

The current occupants of sixth spot do not have a League One match for a couple of weeks, with international call-ups and the Papa Johns Trophy final interrupting Bolton's schedule.

John Mousinho has no problem with the fact that recent form has reawakened hopes of a promotion push.

But he has urged his side not to get carried away and ensure they are fully focused on Saturday’s clash with the Valiants.

The Blues boss said: “All of the games at Fratton Park have felt really big for me, the staff and the lads.

“Even if there was absolutely nothing to play for, then you still have to make sure you put on a performance at home.

“We have brought ourselves back into contention with a couple of wins last week and need to make sure we maintain our focus on Port Vale.

“You can’t get too carried away with everything else that’s going on – so use the top six as motivation, but don’t lose sight of the goal of winning on Saturday.

“There’s a bit of a buzz about the changing room with the way things are going and we don’t want that to drift away.

"We have brought ourselves back into contention with a couple of wins last week and need to make sure we maintain our focus on Port Vale."

John Mousinho

“Port Vale took some momentum from their promotion into the new season and are an organised side with a lot of energy, so we expect a stern test.

“We’ve got the two internationals out and that’s a blow, but that’s the whole point of having a squad and it presents others with opportunities.”

Mousinho enjoyed the chance to speak with directors Eric Eisner and Andy Redman following last week’s win at Bristol Rovers.

He said: “They came into the changing room after the game and it was brilliant to meet them face-to-face for the first time.

“It was great to catch up, but we do that on a regular basis anyway and will go in depth about various issues, particularly recruitment.”

Marlon Pack could soon be competing for a place in Pompey’s midfield again after continuing his recovery from knee surgery.

Mousinho said: “He has returned to modified training and joined in with the passing and some possession work, which is a real positive.

“Marlon’s probably still a couple of weeks away from being available, but it’s great to have him back out on the grass again.

“We have to manage him wisely and remember that he’s had surgery, while we’re looking to schedule in a specialist to see Zak Swanson to resolve his groin problem.”


Advertisement block

iFollow Next Match Tickets Account