Conor Shaughnessy believes that Pompey have made the most of their fortnight gap without a game.
International call-ups led to last Saturday’s scheduled contest at Oxford being postponed, meaning they have not been in action since the home draw with Charlton.
And the Blues are now back in Fratton action again, welcoming Blackpool to the south coast this weekend.
Shaughnessy feels that a mixture of resting and an intense spell of training will ensure they are fully prepared for the contest.
The defender said: “We got a few days off after the last game and that allows you to refresh the legs and recover from any knocks and niggles.
“It was also nice just to get away from football completely for a little bit and spend time relaxing with family.
“The international break has given us a good chance to get a few training days in, which has kept everyone nice and sharp.”
Conor Shaughnessy
“I’ve got a little one who’s 10 months old and that certainly keeps me busy! It makes it quite easy to come home and forget about everything.
“But now we’re back and fully prepared. It’s a really strong league this season and there are a lot of teams pushing to be in those promotion places, which keeps you focused.
“The international break has given us a good chance to get a few training days in, which has kept everyone nice and sharp.”
Blackpool were in action last Saturday and eased to a 4-0 victory over Shrewsbury at Bloomfield Road.
Shaughnessy said: “They look a really good side and will come here feeling confident after enjoying a great win.
“It’s a squad that has a lot of Championship quality and so we’re expecting a really tough game at Fratton Park.
“But we’re also looking good and are full of belief. It would be nice to be able to put things to bed before 90 minutes, but we’ll take a win whatever way it comes.”
