Oli Hawkins has featured more often for Pompey so far this season than many would have predicted - possibly including the player himself.

And even though his contribution so far has come in the form of assists rather than goals he is enjoying every minute.

The forward told the club website: 'I’m a striker and want to score goals, but I’m happy with how I’ve been performing and have got some assists. Once the first one comes then I’m confident there will be more. I’ll stay patient and just keep trying to do well.

'At the moment I’m playing my part by being a focal point to hold the ball up and shake some defenders about. It’s working currently and I didn’t complain about coming off because you want your team-mates to do well.'

Hawkins had mixed feelings about the Blues' performance in the 1-1 draw against Shrewsbury and the result - but was able to look on the bright side. He said: 'It was obviously disappointing to fall behind, but the boys showed a lot of character to get the equaliser. It was the first time we had to come from behind this season.

'Shrewsbury are without a win, but we knew they still had a strong team and it was going to be tough. We had to be patient. Everyone can see that it’s a battle every week with me and I just want to come out on top, but they were big and strong.'

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