DISTIN'S POMPEY ODYSSEY; Portsmouth v Boro, today, kick-off 3pm.

Byline: By MARK FLEMING 

SYLVAIN D I STIN believes Portsmouth are now on the world stage as they look forward to their first ever campaign in Europe.

The French defender rates the UEFA Cup as the equivalent of the World Cup for Pompey, who face Portuguese side Vitoria Guimaraes next week.

But he warned his team-mates to focus on today's clash with Middlesbrough, as climbing up the Premiership is the top priority.

"If you don't play for your country then European competition is the highest level you can play," said Distin, 30. "It's like the World Cup for a club.

"Some players may feel that as pressure but for me it's a pleasure.

It's no pressure to play in Europe.

"Winning the FA Cup last season was great. But for me to finish fifth in the league is better. For the fans it won't be. And even as a player at the end of your career everyone looks at your trophies and there's not too much if you finished fifth or sixth.

"But personally you have to be more consistent through the league. So it would be better."

Distin racked up more games than any other Portsmouth player last term, and with the possibility of up to 14 additional UEFA Cup fixtures this time round, Harry Redknapp's side could face a marathon ordeal.

But Distin said: "I like to play.

Training is good but it's nothing to compare with games. I'd play every day if I had to."

CAPTION(S):

HARRY'S GAME Distin gets advice from Portsmouth boss Redknapp