Defender looking forward to Reading test
It might not top Pompey fans’ lists of things to do tonight.
But Brandon Haunstrup is excited about the Checkatrade Trophy clash with a Reading under-23 side at Fratton Park (7.45pm kick-off).
He is expected to feature as Paul Cook prepares to ring the changes for the Blues’ second group stage fixture.
And it would be a maiden first team appearance of the campaign for the left-back, who dislocated his shoulder against Bournemouth in pre-season.
Haunstrup said: “I’ve just come back from injury, so I’m buzzing for the opportunity to be out there again. I’m looking forward to it.
“I was excited about the new campaign and then it just came to a halt really, so I’ve just been working hard to get my fitness back.
“Now I’m looking to get a more consistent run of games under my belt and this competition can provide that.
“A lot of people have a negative view on it, but for guys like me it’s ideal because I need to be playing football.”
As an ‘invited’ club, Reading must field six players under the age of 21, but Haunstrup insists that Pompey will not be underestimating their opponents.
He said: “We’ll approach it with exactly the same mentality as we would any other game.
“Reading are a good team – no matter what side they put out – and I grew up playing against them for the academy.
“There will probably be lads in their side that I’ve faced before and I’m sure it’s going to be a decent test for us.”