Portsmouth assistant manager Joe Gallen has claimed he expects a stern battle with Sunderland this weekend as his side visit the Stadium of Light.
Pompey visit Wearside on the back of a midweek 2-0 win at Gillingham, while Phil Parkinson’s men also claimed three points by seeing off Crewe Alexandra.
“To go to Gillingham and play the way we did was very pleasing. Obviously winning was the priority, but a performance like that provides confidence,” Gallen told portsmouthfc.co.uk.
“We’re now expecting a tough game at Sunderland, but belief is high, and we seem to be doing better away from home.”
Gallen is correct in his statement – Portsmouth have scooped seven points from a possible nine on their travels, whilst picking up just four from 12 at Fratton Park.
And the long-time right-hand man of Kenny Jackett has lauded the occasion of a meeting with the Lads and a fixture at the SoL at this level.
“It’s always a great opportunity for us to go there because they are one of the big clubs in the division,” he continued.
“Like us, they’re very well supported and – a bit like ourselves – are hoping not to be at this level for too much longer.
“It’s a privilege to be involved in matches like this and our players should be looking forward to the challenge of going there and trying to win.”
Always fiery encounters with impressive gate numbers, one of Sky Bet League One’s biggest fixtures will of course be played behind closed doors this Saturday, something Gallen is saddened by.
“It’s a real disappointment a match of this magnitude has to take place behind closed doors.
“Sunderland are one of the biggest clubs outside the Premier League, and it’s a shame there will be no fans there to enjoy the occasion. We’ve missed the crowd at home, there’s no doubt about that – but it will be the same for everybody else.”