It's the longest trip of the season - but that isn't deterring the Blue Army.

Carlisle United's mammoth journey to Portsmouth will see Paul Simpson's side backed by impressive travelling support.

United announced today that they have sold 637 tickets for the 702-mile round trip.

That number could increase further with tickets remaining on sale at Brunton Park until 4pm.

They are also available on matchday at Fratton Park at a £2 increase.

It is set to be the latest eyecatching show of support for the Blues after some strong recent away days.

Some 4,407 United fans roared Simpson's side to victory at Bolton Wanderers in their last away trip.

That was Carlisle's third shortest away journey of the League One season, while longer away games have also brought impressive support.

News and Star: Carlisle's last trip to Portsmouth was a 1-1 draw in front of 481 travelling fans in 2016Carlisle's last trip to Portsmouth was a 1-1 draw in front of 481 travelling fans in 2016 (Image: Barbara Abbott)

This weekend's travelling contingent will be comfortably bigger than the last time Blues fans went to Pompey.

The 1-1 draw on the opening day of the 2016/17 season saw 481 away fans at Fratton Park.

Carlisle are hoping to become the first League One side to beat John Mousinho's league leaders this weekend.

Victory would also be a first for the Blues in seven visits to the south coast club, Carlisle's last win at Portsmouth's ground coming in March 1984 with a 1-0 victory in Division Two.