Ready to seize his Blues chance

when you’re going to be needed.

‘Things change all the time, injuries and suspensions can happen throughout the season.

‘It’s a long season, which we’re coming to the end of now, so everyone needs to be ready if they are called upon.’

Isgrove was given a rare chance to impress as Pompey’s reserves beat the Royal Navy 3-1 at Burnaby Road yesterday.

Pompey boss Kenny Jackett was in attendance, handing several fringe players their chance to stake a claim.

And winger Isgrove was pleased to get some muchneeded minutes before being replaced late on.

He added: ‘I haven’t been playing recently so it was good to get a run out.

‘Obviously, the pitch wasn’t the best but we came and did a job.

‘Everyone put the work in, it was a good attitude from everyone.

‘That’s all the game was for to get the minutes in and play on a pitch which is different to the one in training. It was good to get some game time as I’ve been training hard.

‘But there is nothing like match fitness.

‘Kenny always comes to these matches just to see how we’re doing.

‘There were some firstteamers and youth-teamers involved, he does see us in training, but match situations are a lot different.

‘We’re just focused on what we’re doing on the pitch but it gives you an added incentive to try and impress him and the coaches.’