Local lad John Swift says he had no hesitation agreeing to join Pompey when he knew a Fratton Park move was possible.

The 30-year-old became the Blues' second signing last week following his release by West Brom - and the move brings him back to a club whose books he was on as a youngster.

Swift was brought up in Gosport but has been something of a Fratton Park stranger most of his life.

Swift, who played part of Saturday’s behind-closed-doors pre-season 1-0 victory over Crawley Town, has played for Chelsea, Reading and West Brom.

He told the Pompey website: 'I grew up just down the road and my family are now only 20 minutes away, so it’s a surreal feeling for me. It’s exciting for them to be able to come and watch me here after being all around the country. I’m looking forward to getting started.

'As soon as I knew my time at West Brom was over and Pompey were interested, then I knew wanted to come here. It was all I could think about. This is a great club in a great city, with great facilities and great fans, so it’s definitely an exciting journey for me.

'I’m really happy to be here at such a good side that’s on the up. Everyone has a lot of good things to say about the manager. We had some good conversations before I signed and I think that the way he wants the team to play will really suit me.'

Swift’s only Fratton appearance so far came when West Brom won here early last season and he told the club: 'Even though the result that day went for us, it was tough to come here – and I think everyone in the league said the same thing.

'I remember coming to watch a game when I was younger and Ronaldinho was playing for AC Milan, while I also visited the ground when I signed the first time. But after that, the next time I was at Fratton Park was the game for West Brom, so I was buzzing to come back and play.'

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