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Pompey boss: Hell of a long way to go - but we're excited by challenge

Easter could make or break Pompey's late play-off bid and John Mousinho is at pains to stress that all Pompey's good recent work will count for little if their challenge fades.

They go into the Good Friday trip to MK Dons - which is followed by Monday's home tussle with Morecambe - three points behind the sides occupying the bottom two play-off places.

But Mousinho is all too aware that one or two slip-ups and the bid to finish inside that top six could be over.

He told the Pompey website: 'Nobody has got too carried away because we haven’t achieved anything yet and there’s still a hell of a long way to go. There is certainly no feeling of complacency in the dressing room and everyone’s determination is increasing.

'We’re excited about these remaining seven fixtures and want to do the best that we can to make something of this season. It looked a couple of weeks ago that it was a bit too far away for us, but things can change very quickly.

'There are 21 points to play for — with six over the Easter weekend — and so we have to remain focused on one game at a time. We’re close to the end of the season and so to be in the hunt means it’s a special time and we want that to continue for as long as possible.'

Mousinho is wary of an MK Dons side who he points out have improved of late: 'They’ve been in good form and have produced some excellent performances, so we expect a stern test. Having watched a few of their recent games, it’s no surprise to me that they’ve picked up in recent weeks.

'MK Dons have always been associated with an attractive brand of football and are continuing with that at the moment. Their league position probably doesn’t reflect the talent they have in their squad, but we’ll have amazing support and hopefully our fans will make it seem like a home backing.'

Reeco Hackett is a doubt but Joe Pigott is back after a three-match ban.

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