Emirates FA Cup win would be 'massive' says Adam Barton

Portsmouth’s Adam Barton admits Emirates FA Cup progress would be “massive” as they prepare to host Ipswich Town on Tuesday.

The League Two side, who won The Cup in 2008 under Harry Redknapp, now find themselves as underdogs in the competition.

But after taking Mick McCarthy’s Championship outfit to a replay after a 2-2 draw at Portman Road ten days ago, the former Preston North End and Coventry City midfielder now wants a win to dedicate to the Pompey supporters.

"To get through to the fourth round of The FA Cup would be massive for the club," said Barton ahead of the tie at Fratton Park.

"Our supporters deserve it because they’ve been magnificent – especially in the away game at Ipswich.

"If we could do it for them then that’s great and there’s also the matter of a game against AFC Bournemouth if we win.

"That would be a brilliant test for us, but first we need to concentrate on getting past Ipswich."

Paul Cook’s team are riding high in the table as they look to start climbing back up the Football League ladder.

The Hampshire club have fallen on hard times since that Cup victory at Wembley almost eight years ago, slipping down the leagues in almost successive seasons, but Barton believes an FA Cup run can work in tandem with a promotion chase.

"We all know that our priority is winning promotion this season, but this is a game we’re all looking forward to," added the 25-year-old, who is expected to revert to his natural midfield role having played in a central defensive slot in recent weeks.

"I’d never played in defence before this season, although the manager likes ball-playing centre-halves, so that suits me.

"It was good just to get minutes on the pitch and I’m happy I was able to do a decent job for the team.

"I’ve enjoyed playing there, but it will be nice to get higher up the pitch and back in midfield."