Rose's text appeal ahead of Pompey opener

THE TEXTS have been flowing back and forth.

And the banter in the WhatsApp groups is expected to continue ahead of the big kick-off.

The bragging rights are up for grabs at Fratton Park for the League Two curtain raiser – and Danny Rose is determined to take them.

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Four months ago Rose was celebrating romping to the title with Northampton alongside Nicky Adams.

Tomorrow they line up in opposing camps as they go head to head.

Rose acknowledged the Cumbrians completed a sound piece of business in recruiting the attacking talent.

And he’s expects the fingers to continue flying on phone keypads ahead of tomorrow’s clash.

Rose said: ‘Carlisle have recruited well.

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‘A good mate of mine, Nicky Adams, is there who has a good promotion record.

‘He was eager to get back to the north west where he has his family and his two little boys are from. That’s understandable.

‘I speak to him quite regularly and he seems to be enjoying his time up there.

‘He knows a couple of lads already and has settled in nice and quickly.

‘He loves the banter as well.

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‘He’s one of those who’s always in the WhatsApp groups sending videos and adding voicenotes.

‘There’s going to be a conversation or two between us!

‘It’s going to be nice to see him because there’s good memories of last season.

‘Hopefully we can make some more good memories here this season.’

Having an intimate knowledge of Adams’ game means Rose knows exactly the threat he possesses.

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And that is something Pompey will have to be wary of in the cut and thrust of opening-day action.

‘He’ll be a threat and someone we have to look out for, especially if they come and sit behind the ball,’ said Rose.

‘That was seen here the last game of last season when we were both playing for Northampton.

‘He’s willing to run in behind so we have to be wary of his threat.

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‘It’s definitely going to be a tough game. The first one always is, no matter who you play.

‘Everyone’s going to be at it and eager. It’s going to be 100mph.

‘We need to be calm, though, especially in possession and I’m sure we will be.’

It’s heading towards another bumper crowd at Fratton Park for tomorrow’s clash.

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That’s something Rose has experienced before when appearing for both Northampton and Oxford. Now, he can’t wait to have that backing on his side.

Rose added: ‘I’ve sampled it a couple of times as an away player.

‘I’ve seen it when it’s a packed house and booming. It’s an intimidating atmosphere for away players.

‘I remember it at the end of last season for Northampton.

‘We’d won the league and there was nothing riding on the game, I felt the butterflies more than any other match.

‘That was simply because of the crowd I was playing in front of.

‘So the buzz is there and we’re ready for it.’