Redknapp has fond memories of his time at Fratton Park which included a cup triumph at Wembley before being tempted by White Hart Lane last season.

"I was pleased that Portsmouth got through but I really didn't want to draw them," Redknapp said.

"If I am honest I was hoping to draw Aston Villa but you cannot choose who you play.

"You expect the majority of people to be behind Portsmouth - except Southampton fans."

Redknapp won silverware with Pompey two years ago but he ranks keeping them in the Premier League, after returning there in the 2005/06 season, as his greatest triumph.

He said: "Going to Wigan and winning was a special day, when we were 10 or 11 points adrift with 10 games to go and went on that fantastic run.

"When I went back there really I would not be sitting here now if it had gone wrong. I took a massive gamble. It was the worst team I had ever seen in my life and we were so far adrift. Suddenly it was win, win, win."

Michael Dawson, meanwhile, has revealed he is yet to book his summer holidays while silverware and the World Cup are on the horizon.

Dawson, who is winning his battle to overcome an Achilles injury to face Pompey, is also chasing a Champions League place with Spurs and is hoping his form will lead to an England call-up.

It means the uncapped 26-year-old centre-back is not thinking of the beach just yet.

"I've not booked my hols yet," he said. "My wife keeps nagging me where we're going. I might not have decided yet. Even if I don't get selected for the World Cup, I'd be watching every England game anyway.

"It's a dream to play for England, I was a sub a few times but never got on the pitch. Winning an FA Cup, finishing fourth and going with England would be everything.

"People say what do I have to do - I say if I keep playing well I will have a chance."

To complete his three targets, Dawson will have to overcome his recent heartache at Wembley - in 2008 he was injured for Carling Cup triumph, then he lost in the final of that competition last season.

"Last year we played well and I was devastated," he said. "Hopefully it won't happen again.

"Unfortunately I missed out against Chelsea. Maybe it was not like celebrating if I had played but it's not about individuals. It was great to be part of the squad and a great day out for the fans."

Dawson, Vedran Corluka and Tom Huddlestone need their fitness checked before the match, Ledley King has an outside chance following his thigh problem, while Aaron Lennon is back in training.