He was plucked out of the non-league game and given the opportunity to impress as a professional footballer.
So Colby Bishop understandably has a great deal of affection for Accrington, where he netted 39 times across three seasons.
The striker will now head back there with Pompey for Tuesday evening’s rescheduled League One contest.
And despite the task of trying to hurt his former club’s survival bid, he admits it will be an emotional return.
Bishop said: “I’m really looking forward to catching up with some of the guys there. There are people who were very good to me.
“I wouldn’t be where I am now without them and so that’s something I’ll always be extremely grateful for.
"I haven’t been back to Accrington since I came down here, so it’s going to be great to see a few familiar faces."
“There a lot of players there who are still friends of mine, so it will certainly be an interesting one for me.
“I haven’t been back to Accrington since I came down here, so it’s going to be great to see a few familiar faces.”
Bishop has already recorded his best seasonal goal tally in the EFL and will be looking to find the net for the 20th time this term at the Crown Ground.
The 26-year-old said: “I can’t complain because there have been chances coming along and that’s great for me.
“I’m someone who always thrives off crosses and there have been some great balls coming into the box.
“I believe in my own ability and know that if I keep going, then I’ll get my rewards. It’s certainly not been the worst season ever.”