Southampton's James Ward-Prowse fired up for Portsmouth cup clash | OneFootball

Angus Gunn has revealed that James Ward-Prowse has made his Southampton team-mates well aware of the importance of their upcoming derby.

Saints will face their fierce local rivals Portsmouth at Fratton Park in the third round of the EFL Cup later this month.

And having been at St Mary’s since he was eight, Portsmouth-born Ward-Prowse knows just how much this game means to the two sets of supporters.

“I don’t think I need to do any research [on the derby],” goalkeeper Gunn told the Daily Echo.

“Prowsey has already told the lads about it and you see the reaction after the draw from all the fans.

“Obviously I heard all the fans singing against Manchester United and everyone is really looking forward to it.

“He basically said that was his dream draw, really. That’s what he said and he’s really looking forward to playing there.

“Whatever his history is, it is. He’s been a Southampton guy for years now and we’ll be going out onto that pitch to win it for the fans.”

The two south coast rivals haven’t met since they faced each other in the Championship back in 2012 and Gunn says they will be taking nothing for granted despite the fact two divisions now separate them and League One Pompey.

“I think it’s going to be a great atmosphere for everyone involved,” he added.

“But, at the end of the day, it’s a couple of games away so we’ve got to put it in the back of our minds for a little bit.

“We’ll be ready on the night.”