Some talk about games in October or November being six-pointers. They're not, of course. But now we're in the third week of April, a genuine one has come around - Pompey v Charlton.

In the race to fill the last couple of play-off spots, this is huge. If Pompey win they will be set up for a big final couple of games - if they lose they can start to think about another League One campaign in 2018-19. Even a draw is probably not enough to keep their battle going, unless other results go their way.

The Blues go into the game eighth and with 63 points - while Charlton, also with three to play, have 65. Also of concern to Pompey is what Plymouth and Scunthorpe do, for either of those could still finish above them even if Kenny Jackett were to guide his team to three wins from three. Plymouth go to Northampton this weekend, Scunthorpe host Walsall.

Defender Nathan Thompson is relishing the chance to take on Charlton in front of a Fratton full house.

He told The News: 'As a player, this is what you look forward to. It’s a big game in front of a sold-out crowd. This is why myself and players like Pits (Brett Pitman) came to a club like this.

‘When I signed for the club, being involved in games like this as we look to secure promotion is why I joined. We’re in the play-off race three games from the end of the season and in touching distance. It’s all to play for — and what an exciting thing to be a part of.’

Jackett is still talking up Pompey's play-off hopes despite the major setback of a defeat at Bradford in midweek.

The boss told www.portsmouthfc.co.uk: 'We still see these last three games as very much an opportunity for us to get into the top six. In most games we’ve been within touching distance and certainly haven’t got blown away on many occasions.

'But the bits we have to find in order to be one of the three sides promoted out of this division are key. We have to learn and learn quickly.'

Pompey have no new injury worries.

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