Portsmouth have had a decent season, considering the changes they have had and the financial worries which lay at their doorstep. Harry Redknapp leaving for Tottenham might have upset a few fans but few can deny him the opportunity to take over at White Hart Lane. Tony Adams took over and really struggled to continue Redknapp's good work and was relieved from duty.
Paul Hart came in and has steadied the ship, grinding out results to give the club yet another season in the Premier League. Top scorer Jermain Defoe left to join Redknapp at Spurs and this played it's part in the club's survival scrap. Goals are always hard to come by in this division and the responsibility fell onto Peter Crouch who took the reigns well and helped keep the club up.
Portsmouth are a team who Wigan can look up to. FA Cup winners, reaching the UEFA Cup in the process and top ten finishes. If Wigan an push on next season, this may not be out of reach. Last weekend at Stoke was a disappointing result with what seemed to be a lack of interest hitting the players. A key issue is that the squad put in so much effort against Manchester United, you cannot replicate that only 3 days later against a hard working, physical side. At least the club will be in the Premier League next season and can look from above at the scrap which will take place on survival Sunday.
Wigan Team News
Steve Bruce may shake things up for the final game of the season with no Chris Kirkland and Amr Zaki. Paul Scharner is once again a doubt and Antonio Valencia may well have played his last game for the club with a hamstring hampering his place in the side. There could be starts for Cho Won-Hee, Daniel de Ridder and Mike Pollitt who has just signed a new 1-year-contract to extend his stay at the club for a 5th season.
Wigan Predicted Line Up
Pollitt
Melchiot Bramble Boyce Figueroa
de Ridder Cattermole Won-Hee N'Zogbia
Rodallega Mido
Key Players for Portsmouth
Sol Campbell - Sol has been a world class defender for many years and though he may have lost a bit of pace which he use to have, he is still strong and gives his all. Could be his last appearance for Pompey.
Glen Johnson - Johnson is being linked with a move to Liverpool and played fantastically this season. The England right back is in the best form of his career and has scored a few spectacular goals over his career. Another who could be on his way out this summer.
Jermaine Pennant - Could Pennant be playing at the DW Stadium next season? If Antonio Valencia does leave as expected, Pennant is the man Bruce wants to replace him. Quick and has a good right foot, Pennant would fit well into the sides midfield and will be a threat for Portsmouth on Sunday.
Peter Crouch - Crouch will be making his first start at the JJB since playing for Norwich back in the old First Division in 2003/2004. His height makes him a huge threat from set pieces and has fantastic control when he has the ball. Watch out for the acrobatics as he has scored a few bicycle kicks in his career.
WIGANER.net Prediction
This game will have a slow pace to it with not much to play for. Both managers will want the win but Wigan should edge this close encounter to send the fans home happy for the summer.
WAFC 1-0 PFC
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