Pompey will compete in the UEFA Cup after winning the FA Cup against Cardiff City last month.

Few predicted the club would win a trophy at the beginning of the season and Primus is hoping for a similar element of surprise in Europe.

"No-one expected us to lift the FA Cup this year, but we surprised people," he said. "I think it could be a similar story in the UEFA Cup. We need to have some luck with the draw but we can go out and get results.

"The reality is we have nothing to fear. No-one is expecting much from us so that takes the pressure off. It's not the first time we've been underdogs. We have nothing to worry about.

recent seasons

"We have a few boys who have experienced Europe before. They know what it takes and their experience will be invaluable. I'm looking forward to seeing a European night at Fratton Park.

"The players have done their stuff in recent seasons but we can rely on the crowd to play their part too. Whenever we are struggling they will fight for us. It will be brilliant to see that passion from them in European competition."

Primus will fly to the US on Monday to continue his recovery from key surgery. The defender did not feature for Pompey last season because of the injury.