Sunderland wait as Pompey chase silverware at the capital

It’s almost been nine years since Portsmouth fans walked along Wembley Way to attend the iconic stadium.

That’s all about to change on Sunday however, as the EFL Trophy is up for grabs and the location couldn’t be better.

The home of England, the stage for global sporting events and a stadium which means so much to the people of Portsmouth, Wembley will not disappoint on Sunday.

A historic FA Cup triumph in 2008 was almost followed up again in 2010, only to be denied by a Didier Drogba strike.

It’s been a roller coaster for everyone involved with the club since 08’ but the future looks bright and a return to Wembley could ignite some much needed momentum.

Whether you’ve followed Pompey for 7, 17, 70 years or perhaps even longer, this match against Sunderland is more than just another game.

For supporter Alex Fletcher, 18, who’s travelling up in a minibus with his family, the match promises to be a brilliant occasion.

Alex said: ‘No matter what the competition, Wembley is something special.’

‘You’ve got the chance for glory and to have a brilliant day out’, he added.

Alex also touched on the competition’s controversy due to its recent introduction of academy sides from the top two tiers.

‘I didn’t boycott but I do agree with the principle’, he said.

Alex feels it is ‘wrong’ to have Premier League and Championship academy sides participating however added the EFL Trophy is special when you get to the latter stages.

‘The competition, when you get to this stage, is special in its own right’, he said.

Alex added: ‘It is special because you have got that prize and the end of being able to go and play there (Wembley).’

Wherever you’re watching the big game, a trip to the national stadium must be treasured by all fans.

The future looks bright at Fratton Park and it’s days like this which are all part of a great revival.