Portsmouth centre-back Sean Raggett has spoken out over his slow start to life at the club and what it has taken to cement a place in the first-team.

Raggett, who joined on loan from Norwich City in the summer, was speaking in the club's matchday programme ahead of their Tuesday night clash with Lincoln City at Fratton Park.

“I came here and didn’t have the best start, but am confident in my own ability and knew that I could improve,” the 25-year-old said.

“I’m still not at the level I want to reach, but I’m getting there and happy to be playing in the team. It was just about getting my head down and working hard after being out for a long time.

“You’re not going to have everything go perfectly for you and just have to deal with that. I’m a mentally strong person and can handle it if a bit of stick comes my way."

So far this season Raggett has made just three first team appearances, but has played in the club's last two matches - a 0-0 draw with Gillingham and a 1-0 defeat to AFC Wimbledon.

He will come up against his former side Lincoln City on Tuesday night, a side for whom he made 75 appearances and scored ten goals, including the winner against Burnley in their iconic FA Cup run.

It is a match that could prove a must win for under fire Pompey boss Kenny Jackett with his side currently sat just one point above the relegation zone with 11 matches played.

The verdict

It is not surprise that Raggett has finally become an integral member of Portsmouth's side.

However, it is unlucky for him that he has come in at such an unstable time but he is right, a strong mental attitude is a must in situations like these and it makes you wonder whether other members of the squad have that as well.

A loss to Lincoln and there could well be changes in the dug-out, however, but whoever is in charge, I would expect Raggett to retain his place in the back line.