Pompey winger: I'll keep on creating

The Scottish winger has been a key performer off the bench in recent weeks, netting an 86th-minute winner at Grimsby on Saturday.

Last month he scored at Luton Town and also set up Noel Hunt against Mansfield during excellent cameos as a late substitute.

Such effective entrances have handed Paul Cook an extra dimension in the hunt to secure the victories to break into the promotion spots.

In-form and brimming with confidence, Naismith is seeking a recall to the Blues’ starting line-up.

Regardless, he has pledged to continue conjuring up goals and opportunities – even if he is asked to serve as a substitute.

He said: ‘I always want to make a positive impact, to try to create chances and score a goal, and that is what I will continue to do.

‘Stevenage was one of those things that happen, the circumstances meant we couldn’t get all the subs on, so it was great to get on the pitch against Grimsby.

‘I also really enjoyed contributing to the Mansfield win, even if the reaction was interesting in the build-up!

‘Fans get frustrated at times because they have such big expectations – and so they should with so many good players at the club.

‘That’s just the way football is. I am a football fan myself and when you watch TV and you see a player do something you think “Och, why is he doing that, why is he not doing this?”.

‘I am a Rangers supporter and when I’m watching their games I can give out a bit as well but all I can say is it’s different when you are out there, sometimes you have to be patient and keep the ball.

‘But we celebrated together at the end against Mansfield and I’ll keep on trying to create for Pompey.’

Naismith’s fourth goal of the season gave the Blues a timely lift following the Stevenage disappointment a fortnight earlier.

The dressing room spat between Christian Burgess and Michael Doyle sparked fan concern over potential unrest in the Blues’ squad.

However, such a theory was banished at Blundell Park at the weekend as Cook’s side demonstrated their togetherness during a winning performance.

It was a professional and united display from the visitors, who thoroughly deserved a second successive away victory.

Tellingly, having netted the game’s only goal, substitute Naismith opted to celebrate with the bench.

He was soon followed by his joyous team-mates.

The Scot added: ‘You saw in the celebrations how we are.

‘The whole team went next to the dug out to celebrate with the coaching staff and that was a big moment.

‘Everyone could see how hard we work for each other and how together as a squad we are.’