Jack Rodwell is on course to resume training this month after his latest injury.
The Manchester City midfielder aggravated a long-standing hamstring problem taking a shot during victory at Aston Villa on 4 March.
That meant another disruption to a debut season at Eastlands which has brought just 11 appearances, but Rodwell aims to be fit for April's FA Cup semi-final and to play his part in the Premier League run-in.
He told the club website: "Obviously you don't want to tempt fate but I'm not looking at this a lengthy absence and I hope to be back in a couple of weeks.
"One thing I would like to say is a big thank you to all our supporters. I've had loads of good will messages saying to keep my chin up and that's I'll be back before too long.
"The fans are the club as far as I'm concerned and it means a lot to know I have their backing and that they are so supportive towards me.
"Hopefully I can play my part in the run-in and help us win some silverware and end what has been a frustrating season on a high.
"This is an injury that can strike at any time to anyone and I'm sure it something that I'll be rid of before too long, but it's an on-going process and something that can't be rushed."
The hosts took the lead in the 50th minute at the Banks's Stadium when Febian Brandy was tripped by Danny Holmes and Will Grigg notched his 18th goal of the season with a low drive from the subsequent penalty.
Seven minutes later a fantastic 30-yard shot from Craig Westcarr increased the Saddlers' lead and Rovers rarely looked capable of saving a point.
"The lads have that spirit and work ethic in abundance," Smith said.
"Craig Westcarr scored a fantastic goal but you can also talk about Will Grigg scoring another penalty or two great blocks by James Chambers.
"It had to be a battle and we knew what to expect from Tranmere. The lads are comfortable and confident in their own ability and at times played some very good football."
Several Championship managers were at the game, and Smith admitted that was to be expected for a young team doing well.
One target could be former Manchester United striker Brandy although he has indicated he wants to stay put and may sign an extended contract.
The Pompey boss felt his side were unfortunate to leave London without anything to show for their endeavours after a goal from on-loan Millwall striker Shaun Batt gave the O's a 1-0 victory.
"Without doubt the best team lost for sure," said Whittingham. "Three or four of their players told me that as they were coming off the pitch so I think that tells the whole story, and a mistake by us has cost us the game.
"We knew that we needed high energy, we know that Russell Slade organises his team well. They are good on the attack and have good movement, so we needed that high-energy and we got it all the way.
"I'm just so, so disappointed for all the players because they put so much effort in.
"It was a mistake that led to their goal but these things happen. The players are dejected in our dressing room having come here and done so well and I don't think that anybody could deny that we were the better team. That defeat is hard to take.
"The players are all working hard, they know there's a challenge for Portsmouth and they want to be a part of it and that's fantastic for us."
