Brown: Portsmouth spirit behind brilliant start

Now the left-back has stressed the Blues must construct a consistent promotion challenge upon that prized platform.

The opening month of the League One season has seen Kenny Jackett's men drop just two points from five matches.

A return of 13 points leaves them in third spot, behind second-placed Sunderland on goal difference.

Amid such impressive early-season results have been some fighting performances, particularly during wins against Luton and Bristol Rovers.

And Brown believes Pompey have already demonstrated crucial all-round attributes to back up their promotion bid.

He said: '˜It's a brilliant start but that is all it is, a start, and if people think we have made it or been promoted already then you need to think again.

'˜Results-wise we're third in the table, joint second on the same points total, with four wins and one draw. It's not bad.

'˜It's a great platform and that is only what it is, it's a platform. There's no getting carried away thinking we have made it, I have seen teams crumble after the opening 10 games.

'˜Of all the sides I saw in League One last season and the year before, the ones promoted had grit and determination as their platform '“ and in abundance away from home.

'˜Look at teams like Oxford with all the ability, with great players, but they've got to have the other side of the game where they want to dig in for each other and get results. Sometimes that's the difference away from home.

'˜It's a good platform, there is grit, determination and togetherness in the changing room. We've got that spirit.'

Pompey welcome Plymouth to Fratton Park on Saturday.

Derek Adams' men are bottom of League One, with two points from their opening five matches.

These are still early days in league competition, with Jackett's eight summer recruits, including Brown, still blending in.

And the former Bristol Rovers defender acknowledges ongoing cohesion.

Brown added: '˜There's no doubt in my mind we have some technically good players and the longer we play together the bond and cohesion with players will develop.

'˜Full-backs and wingers build relationships, while the two centre-halves are playing more games together.'