Portsmouth vs QPR preview: R's taking FA Cup 'seriously,' says Darnell Furlong

League One leaders Portsmouth host Championship side QPR for an FA Cup fourth-round clash and Darnell Furlong is determined to avoid an upset.

The R's defender is set to feature in Saturday's Fratton Park fixture and, while he is aware of the challenge Kenny Jackett's side will pose, has urged his team-mates to seize an opportunity.

"I take the cup very seriously," Furlong told the club's official website. "Watching the draw after beating Leeds, the players' group chat was pinging off with the teams that were left as there were a few big sides still in the hat.

"Now it would be nice to get through and go and play one of those sides as we fancy ourselves in the FA Cup.

"Next season Portsmouth could be in our league, depending on what happens, so we are looking forward to the challenge."

Team news

Despite their promotion tilt, Jackett has vowed to field his strongest side, but Pompey have a host of absentees to contend with.

Jamal Lowe is suspended, Andy Cannon is cup-tied, Nathan Thompson and Oli Hawkins remain sidelined by injury and Louis Dennis is a doubt.

David Wheeler has returned to Rangers midway through his season-long loan spell at Fratton Park but will not be eligible.

Steve McClaren will be without midfielder Massimo Luongo, who is away on international duty with Australia at the Asian Cup. Angel Rangel, Tomer Hemed and Geoff Cameron remain sidelined.

Opta stats

• This is the first ever meeting between Portsmouth and QPR in the FA Cup; the most recent encounter between the sides ended 2-0 to the Hoops in the Championship in February 2011.
• Five of the last seven meetings between Portsmouth and QPR in all competitions have ended as draws, with the other two QPR victories.
• Portsmouth haven't reached the FA Cup fifth round since the 2009-10 season, when they went all the way to the final.
• QPR have lost their last four FA Cup fourth round ties, last progressing from this stage in the 1996-97 campaign with a 3-2 win over Barnsley.
• As a manager in all competitions, QPR boss Steve McClaren has faced Portsmouth more often than any other side without winning (P6 W0 D3 L3).

Merson's prediction

I think Portsmouth need to get out of this competition. They could have done with a rest this weekend as their form as dipped. I cannot see Pompey getting a result. Get out of the cup and get in the Championship would be my advice.

PAUL PREDICTS: 1-2 (15/2 with Sky Bet)

Play Super 6

Predict 6 correct scores for your chance to win £250K.