Pompey still believe in their own ability despite a poor week on the road, says boss Paul Cook.

A draw at Yeovil last Saturday was followed by a forgettable 1-0 defeat at Barnet in midweek and it's had some Blues fans saying the promotion dream is all but over.

That seems an over-reaction with a third of the season left but there's no denying Pompey do need their find their best form - and maintain it - to keep pace with the leading promotion contenders.

Ahead of Cambridge's visit to Fratton this weekend, Cook admits it is a vital time.

He told the club website: 'We’re having a blip — there’s no getting away from that. We’re not doing as well as everyone would like us to. But we’ve got belief in what we do and we don’t care about anyone else — we’re just concerned about what we do.

'We’re in our lowest league position this season and we want to be higher, but we’ve got 15 games to go. I feel that unity at this club is important for everyone and if we’re going to have any success then we must be together.

'There are highs and lows and it’s about managing your disappointment and playing without fear. The dressing room after our games against Morecambe and Barnet were not happy places to be, but you must have a good working environment.'

Gary Roberts is a doubt after hobbling off early on at Barnet but Danny Hollands is back in the squad. Cook must decide between Michael Smith and Marc McNulty up front - unless he simply plays both and uses the latter to replace Roberts in the No10 role.

Cambridge are managed by Shaun Derry and are out to avenge a 3-1 defeat United suffered at home to Pompey in October.

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