Portsmouth reserves coach Guy Whittingham says new signing Pele can take heart from his performance in this week's 6-0 thrashing by Chelsea.

Pompey legend Whittingham said: "The first 20 minutes we were okay then unfortunately we couldn't keep the ball and that obviously puts a lot of pressure on your defence.

"Chelsea were quick, powerful and their movement was great and you have got to be well organised to cope with that - in the end they punished us. Still, there were one or two encouraging signs from Pele in what was his first game in English football.

"On the ball he was not too bad, even if some ambitious passes came off and some didn't. He tried to do things too hard sometimes instead of keeping it simple but it's something he can learn.

"Considering it was his first game, he did look strong though, used his body well and lasted the entire 90 minutes which, for me, was another positive.

"Off the ball, however, you cannot afford to switch off for a minute and that is something he will need to get used to. It's going to be even quicker if he gets into the Premier League and you have got to be aware where the opposition players are."