An injury to Lee Brown has given him a chance to impress in the Pompey team.
And while Brandon Haunstrup is not happy about the circumstances behind his recall, the left-back is determined to grasp the opportunity.
He came on in the opening stages of a 5-2 win at Fleetwood last Saturday, then played the full 90 minutes of a New Year’s Day triumph over AFC Wimbledon.
Now Haunstrup is looking to make a mark in the Blues’ upcoming fixtures in order to keep his place in the back-line.
The academy graduate said: “It’s pleasing for me to out on the pitch and playing, although it’s sad to come about because of someone else’s misfortune.
“But that’s why you always have to be ready when you’re called upon because it could come at any moment.
"With games coming up against tough opposition, I’m looking to play well."
“I was prepared at Fleetwood and thankfully we won the game, although I didn’t really have time to warm-up before having to go on.
“So I just had a little bit of sprint as soon as I got on the pitch and then tried to work my way into the game.
“We’ve got strength in depth in every position and the gaffer can feel confident with the squad that he’s got.
“My job is to try to give him a headache and with games coming up against tough opposition, I’m looking to play well.”
Pompey head to high-flying Championship side Norwich in the third round of the Emirates FA Cup this weekend.
Haunstrup said: “It will be a really strong test, both for me personally – if I’m involved – and also for the team.
“We can see where we are as a squad at a level that we could be playing at next season if we achieve our goals.
“The FA Cup is a competition that everyone still wants to be involved in and hopefully the atmosphere will be good at Carrow Road on Saturday.”