Pompey are having to contend with plenty of injuries during a particularly busy stage of the season.
But Danny Cowley believes they can find a way to cope with that setback when Shrewsbury visit the south coast this weekend.
He did admit that the busy treatment room is having an impact on the way his side are performing on the pitch.
And Cowley also revealed why he is not always completely clear about when players are available to return.
The Blues boss said: “It hasn’t been easy and we went into Tuesday with four key central midfielders out and the injury list is currently at around 10.
“It’s been a challenge for sure and we’re realistic enough to know you won’t be able to play with the same control and rhythm.
“Marlon Pack has made 500 career appearances and Joe Morrell is a Welsh international – how do you give someone like Jay Mingi that experience.
“It takes time to develop that game understanding, but we don’t focus too much on the struggle in these moments.
“We prefer to take a positive view and see the opportunities – we’re super proud of Jay and Zak Swanson.
“They made their first league starts at Forest Green and then it’s an even bigger challenge playing at Fratton, with the size of the crowd.
"I can be hopeful of someone playing, although that doesn’t mean they will! Those marginal gains can be crucial."
“We’re realistic to know that we have to find a way and the reality is you have to be able to adapt and overcome.
“We have some players back on the grass, but they need a certain amount of training before you can put them safely into the team.
“I’m in the job of winning, though, and while I’d love to speak openly to the supporters, I’m sure they respect we need every advantage.
“When our opponents gives us information on the availability of their players, it makes our job a lot easier.
“I can be hopeful of someone playing, although that doesn’t mean they will! Those marginal gains can be crucial.”
Shrewsbury sit 12th in the League One table, but were ahead at leaders Plymouth earlier in the week, only to concede two late goals to end up with nothing.
Cowley said: “They’re a very well organised and physical team, with a lot of power about them. They will be difficult to break down, as a number of sides have found out.
“But they also have flair in attacking areas and a goal threat at the top end, so it doesn’t surprise me how competitive they’ve been.
“I’ve watched their game at Plymouth and they were incredibly unlucky. We understand the challenge and that we’ll have to dig deep.
“We really need our supporters’ help. I’m sure they understand the situation we’re in and that we’ll be fighting.”