James expects Wembley start

Portsmouth goalkeeper David James is confident he will be able to play in the FA Cup Final against Cardiff City after recovering from a calf injury.

The veteran England international picked up the problem in the 3-1 defeat at Manchester City in April and has missed Pompey's last two Premier League fixtures against Blackburn Rovers and Middlesbrough.

However, James said: "I had a scan today and it's clear so I'd describe myself as fit. But we'll see what the gaffer says.

"I want to play, of course. I wanted to play against Blackburn and Middlesbrough, and if it wasn't for the medical team I would have done, but that's what they're paid to do.

"It was deeply frustrating not playing but then at the same time I'm part of a team, and if it's deemed right that I don't play and the gaffer decides he doesn't want me to play - much as I'll dislike him for the whole match - then fine.

"They are actually the first league matches I've missed for five years.

"Now I've been given the all-clear I'll crack on and hopefully I can persuade the gaffer to play on Sunday. If not I'll focus on the FA Cup Final next Saturday."