Last season he didn't really fit into the team - he was a luxury that we were kidding ourselves into believing we deserved. This season though everything else is in place and we are crying out for someone with real qualitity to ensure we will be a team to fear in two weeks time.
Chelsea were a strong test for Pompey and despite the 3-1 scoreline, the players look composed and steady but once again, as with Celtic, we never looked like making a real difference in the midfield where Zenden completely imposed himself on the centre. Richard Hughes looks a classy player and Quashie should revel in his Captain's role but there is still a gap for someone who can run at players or make a real telling pass. Kevin Harper and Matthew Wright look capable of inflicting real damage on defences this season and Perricard, Burchill and Todorov look particualry sharp up front. Adebola impressed on his trial but is he better than Perricard? On today's showing no. Perricard once again chipped in with another goal - a magnificent diving header from a good Harper cross and he should work well with either the revitalised Todorov or Burchill.
All in all it was another promising performance from Pompey and it will be interesting to see how they deal with European class against Alaves. Roll on August 10th.