Paul Merson has sent Portsmouth a six-word message ahead of their potentially historic League One clash against Barnsley this evening.
John Mousinho knows a win will seal the League One title and a place in the Championship for the first time in 12 years.
A point will also see the Blues promoted, although the title may have to wait until Saturday if Bolton Wanderers beat Shrewsbury Town.
It promises to be a special night at Fratton Park – and Merson has now sent his old club a message.
Paul Merson sends Portsmouth a message ahead of huge Barnsley clash tonight
Merson knows what it takes to earn promotion on the South Coast. The Sky Sports pundit was instrumental in Pompey’s 98-point season in 2003 under Harry Redknapp.
The 56-year-old’s one-season stint has gone down in Fratton Park folklore. 12 goals in 48 appearances means Merson is fondly remembered at PO4, so much so that he was inaugurated into a mural next to Fratton Park this season.
Taking to X on Thursday, the Arsenal legend sent the Blues a six-word message in response to a video of Pompey’s Championship promotion over 20 years ago.
He said: “Same again tonight!! Play up Pompey!!
A famous Fratton Park night in store for Portsmouth against Barnsley
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Of course, Barnsley are out to spoil what promises to be a famous night at Fratton Park. The Tykes are in indifferent form at the moment, having initially placed themselves firmly in the automatic promotion picture.
The second-half capitulation against Bolton has seemingly taken its toll on Neil Collins’ side. It’s now about consolidation and ensuring they’re heading into the playoffs in the best shape possible.
Goals can be expected. Barnsley are free-scoring but also allow plenty of shots on their goal. If Abu Kamara and Paddy Lane are in form, the Blues could have plenty of joy in transition, something they’ve been superb at this season.