Match Previews

Preview | Portsmouth v Gillingham

11th October

Gills make the journey to Fratton Park to take on Kenny Jackett's Portsmouth.

PORTSMOUTH V GILLINGHAM

Fratton Park

Saturday October 12, 2019

Sky Bet League 1

Kick-Off, 3pm

Team News:

Steve Evans will allow Barry Fuller as much time as possible to prove his fitness ahead of the trip to Fratton Park. The full-back, who will make his 500^th Football League start if picked, suffered a knock earlier this week but is keen to play.

Matty Willock (knee) is still out for a couple of weeks.

As for Portsmouth, they will be without first choice keeper Craig MacGillivray and midfielder Ross McCrorie, who are away on international duty with Scotland.

Ronan Curtis (hamstring) withdrew from the Republic of Ireland squad but should be fine to play if needed.

Tom Naylor and former Gills loanee John Marquis have both recovered from knocks, with Oli Hawkins (foot), Bryn Morris (groin) and Jack Whatmough (knee) all out.

Manager Comments:

Kenny Jackett – “It’s one we’re all excited about but we won’t underestimate the opposition because you have to work hard for every point.

“We’ll certainly have to be at our best on Saturday and it’s an opportunity to keep taking our season forward.

“You look at the team you’re facing, but ultimately judge yourself by your own standards and how your side is progressing.”

Steve Evans – “The Portsmouth fans are famous for creating such a special atmosphere; it’s an historic ground and we are looking forward to making a game of it.

“Players love the opportunity to play in bigger stadiums. We know we will be tested and we know we are playing against a good side who have a gifted manager. We have to be at our very best.”

Previous Meetings:

The clubs last met on Boxing Day last year when Gills recorded an impressive 2-0 win over promotion chasing Pompey. Josh Parker and Callum Reilly were on target for the home side, with Gills having already won the away game by the same scoreline; Tom Eaves and Alex Lacey with the goals at Fratton Park.