Etuhu: We've got no fear

Victory over Birmingham on Tuesday night – in a tumultuous Fratton occasion – saw hope of Championship survival engulf the city.

And three points against relegation rivals Coventry at the Ricoh Arena tomorrow would lift the Blues off the foot of the table.

That would further inspire belief Michael Appleton’s men are set for another famous Great Escape charge.

Going into the Birmingham game, Pompey were floundering, with no win in nine matches and just two goals scored during that run. And when Nikola Zigic put play-off-chasing Birmingham ahead on eight minutes, it seemed Pompey were down and out.

Not a chance.

Appleton’s men roared back in the second half with a sensational attacking performance.

Four stunning Pompey goals later and chants of ‘we are staying up’ rang around the famous old ground.

And Etuhu, who scored a stunning third goal in the epic success, believes Coventry should beware.

Pompey will attack their hosts with freedom and confidence off the back of their brilliant Birmingham display – in keeping with the philosophy of manager Appleton.

Etuhu said: ‘Birmingham are a good side.

‘Now we have got something that can give us a push and show there is still hope.

‘The manager keeps telling us “don’t play with fear, go out there and express yourselves”.

‘I’m a very happy man. I’m happy we got the win and we need to take that into the Coventry game and get a result.’

Etuhu & Co have had to watch on in recent weeks as star players depart in order to help balance the books.

The much-needed loan fees obtained and wage bill reductions boosted the club’s chances of fulfilling their fixtures this season.

But, equally, the loss of key men hindered the cause on the pitch in the battle against the drop.