“It really did hurt. When you are a top team, one loss feels like five.”

That is how Jon Dadi Bodvarsson summed up the disappointment after Wanderers’ defeat at Portsmouth.

Ian Evatt’s men had gone 11 games unbeaten in all competitions prior to their trip to Fratton Park, winning 10 of those matches.

Bodvarsson insists Bolton cannot afford to dwell on Monday night’s result and is keen to bounce back this weekend when Bristol Rovers come to town.

“It was disappointing because of the occasion, we were battling for that top spot and they got the better of us,” he said.

“But at the same time, we can’t feel sorry for ourselves. It is a quick turnaround, there is a game this Saturday and we have to respond.”

The Icelandic forward has had to be patient for opportunities at times this season but returned to the starting line-up against Pompey.

Bodvarsson admits being out of the team can be challenging but knows it is something every player goes through during their career.

“It is simple really, you can’t let the emotions get the better of you,” he continued. “That is the life of a football player.

“You are in and out of the team and there are no guarantees you start every game, no matter how good you are or how well you are doing.

“It is all about the team at the end of the day, and we have got a really strong team at the moment. You have got to respect that and I am really lucky to be in this environment.

“I know my value to the team and to myself, and that is the most important thing.

“I think that is important for every player, you just need to take opportunities when you get them. That has been my mentality and hopefully it will be until I retire.”

While the result didn’t go Wanderers way, Bodvarsson was delighted to get the nod from the start in such a highly-anticipated game.

“It felt great, I was very excited,” he smiled. “The nerves kicked in again which is, for me, a good thing. If I didn’t feel a bit nervous I would be worried!

“You get that tingling feeling and a buzz from starting games, and obviously it was a big game. Unfortunately, the result didn’t go our way but I am happy that I got 90 minutes in the legs.”

The fixtures continue to come thick and fast over the Christmas period, but the striker is still taking things one game at a time.

“Our whole philosophy is taking it game-by-game and not looking too far ahead,” he stated.

“As cliché as it is, it is very important to stay present with each game and see where we are at come the end of the season.”