Portsmouth boss Kenny Jackett has claimed his side are entering a season-defining period as they aim to climb the League One table following an underwhelming start.

The south-coast club are currently sitting 13th in the third-tier table after winning just five of their 15 league matches this term, but Pompey could secure their third straight victory in all competitions if they beat Rochdale on the weekend.

Jackett's side secured a 4-1 win over Southend in their last league outing before a narrow 2-1 success against Harrogate Town in the FA Cup, and they now have a chance to extend this run and climb into the top half of the table when they face the Dale.

Speaking via the club's Twitter account, Jackett has now claimed the club's upcoming run of matches will define their season as they aim to assemble a strong run of form following some better performances of late.

"We’re coming into a season-defining period and looking to put a run together to build on some improved performances," he said.

Portsmouth have so far failed to kick on this season since making the League One play-offs last term, but they now have a good chance of securing back-to-back league wins against a Rochdale side who have lost their last four matches.

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The Verdict

Jackett is definitely correct in that this is a significant period for Portsmouth as they now have a chance to prove they have truly re-discovered their form following a promising 4-1 win last time out in the league.

There will definitely be some Pompey fans who are unconvinced that Jackett is the man to take Portsmouth forward given their disappointing start to the season, so this upcoming period could also define Jackett's future at the club.

It would definitely not go down well if Portsmouth are unable to beat a Rochdale side who are in poor form at the moment, so three points should be the bare minimum for Pompey this weekend.