Mansfield Town

Our team, who have won their last two away matches in Sky Bet League Two, visit Fratton Park having accumulated 19 points on their travels so far this term.

“We’ve been quality away from home and the lads have been on [their game], so it’s a bit disappointing that [our home form] hasn’t been the same,” said Howell.

“But our away form is good and hopefully we can go to Portsmouth and keep it going.”

Saturday’s match poses a near 400-mile round-trip for our squad and is sandwiched in-between gruelling treks to Exeter City (448 miles) and Plymouth Argyle (534 miles).

When asked about what happens on long coach journeys, Howell replied: “Some of the lads like to play cards, but I bring my pillow and just try and sleep all the way down.

“It’s all about preparing for the game the day after, so when we get to the hotel I go for a dip in the pool and just try and get as much rest as possible.”

Reflecting on our recent home form, Howell added: “To be honest, I think it’s more about the focus, rather than the mindset of the lads.

“At this present time with where we are sitting in the league, most people are not happy and that’s understandable. People are going to make their views known and it’s unfortunate that [it happens] during a game.

“But the lads have got to be able to concentrate on the game, roll their sleeves up and concentrate on the team we’re playing against.”

He added: “As a unit I think we’re trying everything possible to keep strong and block out the negatives.

“In every perspective, we’ve just got to stick together and that includes the fans, because this is an important time when we need everyone to come together.”