Portsmouth striker Colby Bishop described the months after open-heart surgery as “terrifying” but said the ordeal made him feel “grateful”.

The 28-year-old underwent surgery in the summer after a potential risk was identified during an off-season heart scan, which has prevented him from playing any part in the season so far.

However, Bishop made a surprise return to the match squad for Saturday’s Championship game against Preston North End, scoring a second-half penalty as Pompey won 3-1 to earn their first home win.

“I’m not going to lie to you, it was horrific,” Bishop told BBC Radio Solent.

“I had a 12-day-old baby when I had the surgery, nothing was guaranteed during the process, but life is good now, so I’m so grateful.

“It was weird for me because when I was told I needed surgery I felt completely fine.

“I came back from the summer probably in the best shape I have ever been in my career, I was at the front of every running session and I worked really hard in the off-season.”

The striker was a key part of Portsmouth’s promotion side last season, making 48 appearances and scoring 21 goals.

Bishop was not listed in Portsmouth’s squad at the start of this campaign, so many thought the opportunity to see him on the pitch again would come in January 2025, when the lists could be reintroduced.

“This is something we keep secret.” Portsmouth boss John Mousinho told BBC Radio Solent.

“Colby had three scans over the course of the week to get his final check, but there was a possibility he might not be available or it could have been another six weeks or January as we originally expected.

“Colby has been training with the first team for six weeks so we knew he would be ready, this whole situation is a testament to Colby and how quickly he managed to bounce back from everything, it’s a big boost for us.”