After a protracted transfer saga, Preston striker Eoin Doyle has finally joined Pompey on loan until the end of the season.
The 28-year-old Irishman has worked with Paul Cook previously at Sligo Rovers and Chesterfield and he has always scored goals under his management. His record of 32 goals in 69 games for the Spireites is particularly impressive, especially as he is used to playing the lone forward role.
On the face of it, this is an excellent signing which could change Pompey's promotion prospects. He may not have been prolific in the Championship for his parent club or Cardiff but his record isn't that bad for the second tier. So he should be able take advantage of the more "generous" defending in League Two, should he receive the service he requires, of course.
In other transfer news Adam Buxton has had his contract at Portsmouth mutually terminated whilst Ben Close has been loaned to Eastleigh for the remainder of the campaign.
The former won't be a loss as he could never get fit although it's a shame Pompey fans couldnt see what he was capable of. If Paul Cook isn't lying then his transfer business is over and he has let a right back go without bringing one in. If that is the case then it looks like Gareth Evans will be filling in that "problem position" for the rest of the season.
The latter's move makes sense as Close should be pushing for a first team place next season with Doyle (Michael, that is) on the decline.
It's also a boost to see that Conor Chaplin will remain a Pompey player until the end of this season at least. Here's hoping he'll have the opportunity to work with Eoin and score the goals that wins promotion come May.