There is no doubt that Pompey’s priority this season is to achieve success in League One.
But that does not mean Kenny Jackett is treating their Checkatrade Trophy tie with Northampton lightly.
The sides clash in the last 32 of the competition after managing to progress through the group stages.
It is being played on a Saturday, with both clubs opting to take advantage of an otherwise free weekend following their early exits from the FA Cup.
Now Jackett hopes his men can build on their league victory over Plymouth with another positive result at Fratton Park.
The Blues boss said: “Northampton have beaten us once already this season and, like us, will now be looking towards the latter stages of the competition.
“Wembley is the carrot for all of us and, while respecting the opposition, it’s an opportunity for us to progress at home.
"We’re looking to build a winning run to make sure that our confidence remains as high as possible."
“We also want to keep some momentum going after a hard-fought victory in the league last weekend.
“So we’re looking to build a winning run to make sure that our confidence remains as high as possible.
“I would always want to progress in every competition, although you do have to prioritise when you’ve got a busy run of fixtures.
“But with this game being pulled forward from Tuesday to Saturday then it certainly suits both clubs and managers.”
Jackett will look to field a strong side against the Cobblers, although Pompey are missing several first team players.
He said: “Naismith, Pitman, Hawkins and Donohue – those four guys won’t make this Saturday’s match.
“But we’re hopeful that all of them will be fit and available for the league game at Charlton the following week.
“With the injuries we have currently I don’t think there are a lot of options for me with regards to changes.
“So it will be a full strength side of whoever is available – it won’t be too different from the Plymouth game last weekend.”