But taking on the mighty Italians at tumbledown Fratton Park in the UEFA Cup has far from overwhelmed rookie Premier League manager Tony Adams, veteran of a string of glowing European memories as a player with Arsenal.

And he has ordered his team, severely weakened by injuries to Jermain Defoe, Lassana Diarra, Sol Campbell and Niko Kranjcar and yet to win for him at home, to keep their feet on the ground and remember their status in the domestic top flight is their most important asset.

Adams, just a month into his new job as successor to Harry Redknapp, said: "Don't get me wrong, this is probably the most prestigious match this club has ever played - but we have prepared for it in the same way as for every match. So let's not big it up too much.

"It's a great match for the supporters, a reward for what we did last season and winning the FA Cup was fantastic but now it's feet-on-the-floor time.

"What we need to be focused on is staying in the Premier League and giving ourselves the chance to play teams like Milan every year. That is the only way to do it.

"But although it is a bit sad I can't field what people would call my strongest team, we will still throw everything at them and believe that a win is achievable.

"Of course it is a great challenge for me as a coach but it is the kind of challenge you hope to have year after year."

England goalkeeper David James insists: "There is no way you can call it a normal game. It was just a dream before the draw was made but now it is a fantastic occasion which you can't just play down.

"These are the nights which football fans want."

James thinks Milan might have an initial problem with what are euphemistically called the "basic facilities" at Pompey but he admits: "Being as professional as they are, it will take them just about five minutes to realise they have come here with a job to do.

"We always hope the ground will work to their advantage but it's the same when the likes of Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal come here. I'm sure Milan will get used to it.

"Besides, it is much improved from the old days. We now have a few more boards, lights and tiles in the dressing rooms."

Carlo Ancelotti, Milan's head coach, is adamant his stars will not be affected.

He said: "We've travelled everywhere and we are professional in our approach always. The pitch is in good condition here and for scoring goals that is the most important thing."