Ronan Curtis is looking forward to facing some of the best sides in League One in the lead-up to Christmas.
Top-of-the-table clashes with Barnsley and Sunderland follow this evening’s floodlit Fratton fixture against Charlton.
It is a run of games that Pompey will hope can see them extend their six-point lead at the League One summit.
And Curtis knows they must maintain their recent high standards in order to collect a healthy festive haul.
He said: “Charlton are a massive club – we’ve watched them and know what we have to do. We’ll just stick to what we do best.
“You want to play against the best sides, so it’s one we’re all looking forward to. We know that it’s a big game.
"We’re going to have to dig in deep and take our chances in order to get some more positive results."
“But everyone’s been putting in the effort on the training ground to get the work done and confidence is flying at the moment.
“The next few games are huge for us, with Barnsley and Sunderland next to come after we play Charlton.
“So we’re going to have to dig in deep and take our chances in order to get some more positive results.”
Curtis has been a regular in the Pompey side since joining Derry in the summer, but knows there are other players itching to be involved.
The Republic of Ireland international said: “When I came here I didn’t think I’d play as much as I have, but I’ve worked hard and am grateful for the chance I’ve been given.
“But it’s good to have that competition in the squad because it makes you play better and all the boys have been brilliant.”