Doncaster Rovers v Portsmouth: Pompey to test how much Grant McCann's men have learned

Appointed as manager as recently as the end of June, the 38-year-old has enjoyed a promising start to his Keepmoat tenure in terms of performances and points, although a big barometer is expected to arrive this afternoon against an unbeaten Pompey side boasting a 100 per cent record from four games.

McCann is the first to admit that peaks and troughs will arrive in the weeks and months ahead, but he says that he could not be happier in terms of the application of his players.

McCann said: “It has been a short time; seven or eight weeks since we have been here. We have only been with the group for an early part, but they have taken all the information on board and the training has been great.

“Speaking to experienced managers, it is always hard to try and get your ideas across (straightaway) as a new manager.

“But I think this group has taken ours on board very, very quickly.”

After turning over Pompey on home soil with strong performances in the past two seasons, Rovers are seeking an encore, although McCann is more preoccupied with witnessing further incremental improvement from his players.

He added: “It is a big test, but we are fully focused on what we have to do. We know we have to improve to get better in certain areas and always will, whether we are winning, losing or drawing.

“We are doing it the right way.”

Rovers last night signed Peterborough midfielder Jermaine Anderson on loan until January.

The 22-year-old has scored five goals for Peterborough.