MOUSINHO: SPIREITES WILL MAKE IT TOUGH

PORTSMOUTH boss John Mousinho has warned his League One table-topping troops to expect a ‘tough test’ at Chesterfield in their televised tie this afternoon.

- John Lyons

The game kicks off at 12.15pm on ITV1 and a nationwide audience will see Pompey take on a Spireites team setting the pace in the National League – and managed by ex-Portsmouth boss Paul Cook.

“We’ll take the tie as seriously as we possibly can, so expect a strong side to be put out,” Mousinho told the club website.

“Chesterfield are top of the National League and they’ve got a squad littered with ex-League One and Championship players.

“They’ve got a manager with experience of that level as well, so they’re probably below where they should be. Paul Cook has done well wherever he’s gone and likes to play an attacking style where his side dominates possession.