A potential Emirates FA Cup tie against of the big boys from the top-flight is just one win away.
Pompey travel north to Spotland on Sunday to do battle with Rochdale for a place in the third round draw.
With the Blues currently sitting top of the League One standings, some fans may question where the tie lies in this season’s priorities.
But Matt Clarke is not worried about whether points or progress are at stake and is simply focusing on continuing the team’s fine form.
The centre-back said: “We’re treating it the same as we would any other game that we might play in any competition.
“I know that the fans are more fond of the FA Cup than the Checkatrade Trophy, although when you’re on the pitch it’s all the same.
"It’s exciting to see what ball number you are and the teams you might face – it’s something that you want to be a part of."
“This is a game that we want to win and there are obviously big prizes the further you progress in the competition.
“When you think about the FA Cup, then I think everyone in our squad would look to be in the third round draw.
“It’s exciting to see what ball number you are and the teams you might face – it’s something that you want to be a part of.
“I got a goal when we played Rochdale in the league and I want to be on the scoresheet again this time, but I’d just take a win. I’m not looking to start nutmegging people again!”
Pompey’s have conceded just 15 league goals from their 19 games this season – the best defensive record in the third tier.
Clarke said: “It’s a strong unit and I don’t think we need to compare it to past teams, but just embrace how we’re doing at the moment.
“We’ve got to enjoy where we are at the moment because of the hard work that’s been put in, while making sure not to get ahead of ourselves.”