Kenny Jackett is delighted that Pompey are able to welcome fans back into Fratton Park on Saturday.
There will be just 2,000 in attendance for a League One clash with fellow promotion hopefuls Peterborough.
But with supporters absent from the ground for almost nine months due to Covid-19, it still promises to be a big occasion.
And Jackett hopes that their backing can help his troops continue their recent run of fine home form.
The Blues boss said: “It’s good for football overall, but it’s massive for our players that they’ll be there and driving us on. It’s an excellent step.
“The way the fans get behind this team is a massive thing, although I’m sure all sides will want their own supporters there because it’s a big part of the game.
"There are signs now that we might be coming through it and hopefully the sport can recover, with fans returning a big part of that."
“A good home record is something they contribute to – there’s no doubt about that – and we were unbeaten at Fratton Park when last season was suspended.
“We’d got to the middle of March and so that really was a fantastic achievement – and one we’re very proud of.
“If we’re going to be successful this time around, then it’s something that we’re certainly going to need to replicate.
“It has been strange playing behind closed doors, but this virus is unique and has affected every industry – not just football.
“There are signs now that we might be coming through it and hopefully the sport can recover, with fans returning a big part of that.”
Pompey’s opponents are sitting third in the standings, but have lost three of their past four league games.
Jackett said: “Peterborough are one of the sides who are up there in the table and have got a very strong team.
“We’re disappointed with the Blackpool game on Tuesday and we can certainly play better, so we’re looking to bounce back.
“There’s a lot of capability in our squad and I’ve got confidence and faith in them that they can be successful this season.”