Why Doncaster Rovers boss Darren Moore is expecting a strange afternoon on his Portsmouth return

But he is expecting an eerie experience as he returns for the first time as Doncaster Rovers manager, with no crowds present for Saturday’s game.

“It will be a real strange day - particularly there with knowing the atmosphere they create,” Moore told the Free Press.

“I would imagine it will be quite eerie. There would potentially be 17-18,000 fans down there in a crowd that just doesn’t stop.

“They are continuous with their support of the team and they get right behind you.”

Moore admits he is disappointed there will be no fans at Fratton Park this weekend, having missed out on the opportunity to return with Rovers last season due to the season being ended by the Covid-19 pandemic.

“The Pompey faithful always remember the players that have been there in the past,” he said. “They’ve got a never forgetting attitude with past players that have come back there to either play against them or manage.

“They make it known and show their appreciation.

“For someone that has played there and knows what it’s all about, I always get a warm welcome from them.

“Going back with my own team, it will seem eerie. I’m returning to Fratton Park as a manager and there’s not going to be anyone there - it’s going to be strange.”

Portsmouth have endured a mixed start to the season with two wins and two draws from their opening five league matches.

But the Rovers boss is expecting a tough test from an experienced side.

“It’ll be a really good game,” Moore said.

“They’re a good team with an experienced manager, a good man in Kenny Jackett.

“We’re looking forward to the game. We missed out on the game down there last season.

“They’re making headway in the division like they always do.

“They showed their capability last season in getting to the play-offs.

“We’re looking forward to the game.”

Moore made more than 60 appearances for Pompey over a two year spell from 1999 to 2000.

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