Portsmouth captain Thomas Atkinson is excited for the different challenges his team will face in the new IKO EAFL season

Writes: Evan Halliday

Portsmouth’s captain, Thomas Atkinson, spent his fair share of time lifting trophies and celebrating success last year as his side won three out of the four domestic competitions.

Atkinson reflected on his team’s performances last year and said, “we ended up winning all the domestic cup competitions last year, most notably the elusive FA Disability Cup to complete our trophy cabinet.

“What was most impressive was the tough circumstances we worked through at times throughout the season so looking back at our accomplishments, we did very well to achieve what we did.”

However, the one trophy that eluded Pompey was the IKO England Amputee Football League title.

There have been some major changes to the Portsmouth squad, but Atkinson remains confident in his team’s ability to challenge – maybe his time in the Big Brother House has gotten him used to seeing people leave.

He said: “the teams we are competing with have strengthened and we have of course lost some players but it would be so rude to write Portsmouth off, considering the talent we have.

“It will be a new challenge for us, the pressure to perform and be the best is off of our shoulders for once.”

Aki (Thomas’ nickname) has been ever present in goal for Portsmouth, leading his team from the back and he will certainly be demanding wins this weekend.

He said: “We go into every football match wanting to win and that will forever be our goal, but of course we need to be realistic and just beat whoever is in front of you.

“Hopefully we will do what we need to in order to finish top spot at the end of the season.”

The start of the IKO EAFL season is right around the corner now, and Portsmouth will be hoping to start strong.

Keep up to date with the EAFA social media channels to see how Portsmouth, Everton, Chelsea and newcomers Newcastle get on this weekend.