Pompey close to being a really good side - Bailey

Portsmouth midfielder Odin Bailey says they are "close to being a really good side" despite a slow start to the new season. Pompey lost three of their opening four league matches, before taking five points over a three-match unbeaten run - beating Cardiff before drawing with Charlton Athletic and Blackburn Rovers. It leaves John Mousinho's side 19th in the early Championship table, three points above the relegation zone but also three points away from the top half of the table, which would represent progress for the club. "There's a massive feeling of frustration because we feel like we're so close as a team to becoming a really good side," Bailey told BBC Radio Solent. "It's just the few minor details and at this level, you make a mistake and you get punished. That's been the trend from the start of the season. "I think we've put together some good performances, but got undone with a few mistakes here and there." In 2025-2026, John Mousinho's side recorded just five wins before Christmas, eventually finishing 18th. They won just one of their opening 14 matches in 2024-2025 following promotion back to the second tier, but stayed up in 16th. "There's a lot of positives to take because we play some great stuff across the pitch, and we do feel a lot more solid defensively," Bailey added. "It's just about sticking with it, and trusting in our process, in what we're doing, and it will go our way." Bailey, 26, left League One Stockport at the end of last season following their play-off final defeat by Bolton Wanderers. The midfielder signed a three-year contract with Pompey , but has yet to start, making four substitute appearances. "That's all part and parcel of football," Bailey said. "It's just about staying patient and working hard on the training ground, and not sulking. "You want to be kept on your toes. You want to look around and see top players all fighting for similar positions. "The depth is definitely there in those positions, and for me its just about when I get those opportunities try and show everyone what I'm about." Portsmouth's next game after the international break is an away trip to south coast rivals Southampton on Sunday, October 11 (12:00 BST). Latest Portsmouth news, analysis and fan views