Bailey: Portsmouth Are Near Turning Into a Top Team

Midfielder Odin Bailey believes Portsmouth's three-match unbeaten streak signals the squad is close to a breakthrough despite a sluggish season start.

Portsmouth midfielder Odin Bailey believes the club is on the verge of becoming a strong Championship outfit, even though the new campaign began poorly. Speaking to BBC Radio Solent, he said frustration runs through the dressing room because the players sense how close they are.

Pompey dropped three of their first four league fixtures before an unbeaten stretch of three games brought five points: a win over Cardiff followed by draws with Charlton Athletic and Blackburn Rovers. The run leaves John Mousinho's men 19th in the table, three points clear of the drop zone and the same distance from the top half.

Bailey pointed to fine margins as the issue, saying mistakes at this level get punished and have cost the side since the season opened. He added that the team produces strong performances, plays well across the pitch and looks more solid defensively, urging patience and trust in the process.

The 26-year-old joined Pompey on a three-year deal in the summer after leaving League One side Stockport following their play-off final loss to Bolton Wanderers. He has made four appearances off the bench without yet starting and said he is staying patient, working hard in training and waiting to show what he can do when chances come.

Portsmouth return to action after the international break with a trip to south coast rival Southampton on Sunday, October 11, kicking off at 12:00 BST.