There's been plenty of debate about whether Ronan Curtis should start in the play-offs or whether his perceived recent dip in form means he should be on the bench.

But you get the sense from the Irishman he would be devastated not to play a full role as Pompey go to Sunderland on Saturday night then host the return leg five evenings later.

Curtis told www.portsmouthfc.co.uk: 'The league’s over and we had a good season in finishing fourth — now we’re looking forward to the play-offs. We’ve got 180 minutes ahead and hopefully we can perform well over the two legs to make it back to Wembley.

'There have been big games that we’ve won already this season and so we can certainly go there with confidence. It’s about taking things step-by-step and keeping our focus — everyone knows what we’ve got to do in these matches.

'The games will be massive for both clubs and I’m sure they’ll be looking to get back at us for what happened in the Checkatrade Trophy. So we need to do what’s necessary and make sure our bodies are on the line to get the result we’re looking for.

'A draw could be a good result in the first leg, although we’re obviously looking to win at Sunderland — and that’s the mindset we’ll take there. I can’t wait to get out on the pitch now. It feels like a cup competition and everyone needs to keep digging in deep.'

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Portsmouth Polls