A look at how Pompey are preparing for the new season
Who’s in charge?
After failing to mount a promotion challenge last season Andy Awford was dismissed with Gary Waddock replacing him as caretaker manager until the end of the campaign.
Pompey have since bought in Paul Cook to take the helm at Fratton Park. Cook had previously played at Wigan, Norwich and Wolves in a career that spanned 23 years. He went straight into management in 2006 with Southport and had spells in charge of Sligo Rovers, Accrington Stanley and then Chesterfield, whom he guided to League One promotion in 2013, before his arrival at Portsmouth in May.
Last season
Pompey began the season well, claiming 10 points from a possible 15. However, they struggled to put a consistent run together through the season and finished in 16th place with 57 points. Pompey also suffered early exits in the JP Trophy (second round), Capital One Cup (first round) and FA Cup (second round).
Summer plans
Portsmouth have been busy in the market, having bought six players in already. They have recruited ex-Reds’ loanee Kyle Bennett (Doncaster Rovers), Enda Stevens (Aston Villa), Gary Roberts (Chesterfield), Adam McGurk (Burton Albion), Adam Barton (Coventry City) and Christian Burgess (Peterborough United). Cook is expected to bring in more new faces.
Previous meetings
There have been two previous games against Pompey, the most recent of which ended in a 2-1 to the Reds thanks to goals from Mat Sadler and Billy Clarke on Boxing Day 2012. Earlier that season Reds lost 3-0 at home and had Hope Akpan and Josh Simpson sent off. Both games took place in League One.
How far is it?
It is a 112 mile round trip to Fratton Park, which the Reds will make on the January 2nd 2016. We face Pompey at home on Tuesday, August 18, kick off 7.45pm.
