Marlon Pack certainly picked a good time to return to Pompey action.
The skipper had been out of action since a foul by Wigan’s Charlie Wyke at the end of September damaged his ankle ligaments.
But after a substitute appearance against Blackpool, he was able to replace the suspended Joe Morrell for a midweek win at Burton.
Pack will be looking to start again when the Blues visit Northampton this weekend, although there are several members of the squad still in the treatment room.
He said: “Those period out are always times of great frustration and so it’s great to have journeyed back to full fitness.
“Watching from the sidelines or in the stands is always a lot tougher – it was nice to be out on the pitch again.
“You’re on different programmes, which means there’s a bit of separation from the group, although it’s a bit easier for me because I’m more experienced.
“I just made sure to stay around the lads as much as I can, but you’re going to feel a bit alienated as you focus on making a full recovery.
"Watching from the sidelines or in the stands is always a lot tougher – it was nice to be out on the pitch again."
“You look at the injuries we’ve got and most of them have been quite unfortunate, rather than a series of muscle problems.
“But they happen in football and so the lads waiting in the wings have to be ready to step up and be counted, which on the whole they have done.”
Pack was paired with Alex Robertson in the engine room at the Pirelli Stadium and was impressed with his midfield partner.
He said: “You could see from the moment he came in just what a fantastic footballer he is – and I think he’s grown each week.
“Robbo’s producing performances where it flows and we can see exactly what he can do. I enjoy playing alongside him and one of the first things I want to do when I get the ball is find him.
“I was applauding him during the game on Tuesday and long may that continue. He’s a fantastic prospect.
“It means the stuff he does off the ball possibly goes a bit unnoticed. He’s willing to stick his foot in and the attitude has been first class.
“He scored his first goal and so hopefully that unlocks a few doors and there can be many more this season.”