Portsmouth game 'very important', says Rooney

Plymouth Argyle manager Wayne Rooney says Tuesday night's game at home to fellow strugglers Portsmouth is "very important".

The Pilgrims are in the relegation zone in 22nd place after a run of four games without a win (D1, L3) and defeat by bottom side Pompey would mean the visitors going above them.

"Especially after the last four games, it becomes a bit more important," Rooney told BBC Radio Devon.

"It's an opportunity for us to try and get back to winning ways. I'm really looking forward to it.

"It will be a difficult game. Portsmouth present different qualities to Leeds and the teams we've played over the last few weeks. We're expecting a tough game.

"We're going into it with fresh legs, fresh minds and hoping we can get three points."

Victory could lift Plymouth as high as 18th depending on other midweek results, which Rooney says epitomises the unpredictable nature of the Championship.

"I think this league is a crazy league, we all know that," Rooney said. "One good week can elevate you right up the table, one bad week you can fall down."

Rooney said both he and any players or staff who are new to the club have to "embrace and understand the reasons" for the rivalry between south-coast clubs Argyle and Pompey.

"There's a lot of passion and pride at stake," he added.