Kenny Jackett kept a watchful eye over proceedings at Pompey’s training base.
The squad had returned for the first day of pre-season preparations and were worked hard in the strong south coast sunshine.
There will be plenty more sweat shed over the next few weeks as the start of the 2018/19 campaign draws closer.
And Jackett knows that hard graft is a necessity if his side are to make their mark on League One next term.
The Blues boss said: “It’s good to see everyone back fit and well, and looking forward to the new season.
"This is a time of year when you can really sow the seeds for what will hopefully be a successful season."
“It’s generally the rule that the sun comes out once you return to pre-season training and it’s been no different this time.
“But this is a time of year when you can really sow the seeds for what will hopefully be a successful season.
“You always set out to do well and try to get one of those three promotion places by finishing in the top six.
“We finished eighth last season and we can focus on where we need to improve, while not just expecting to be successful.
“We have a clean bill of health as we build up to August 4 – and we hope it stays that way throughout the summer.
“There’s a deeper group this time with more competition and we’ll need that as we go through the winter months.”
Pompey head over to Ireland on Sunday and Jackett believes the time away will be useful for his new signings as they look to bed in.
He said: “We go away for a week and that will help them, but they’re all enthusiastic, talented and looking to do well for this club.”