Hammer Schemmel eases Pompey's worries

Schemmel, who came to West Ham via Metz in January 2001 slotted straight into the rightback role at Upton park and made his debut at Charlton Athletic. At his time he made 63 starts, scoring his only goal during the 01/02 season, but had a public falling out with Glenn Roeder and was left out of the side which won at Preston North End over the weekend. This has not deterred Harry Redknapp from signing the Frenchman for a second time, stating "I don't mind the bad boys as they keep you on your toes".

A proposed swoop for Juan Pablo Sorin may fall through due to the wages the Argentine would require, so the latest name to be linked in the lft-back spot is dead ball specialist Ian Harte of Leeds United.

The Republic of Ireland international was frozen out last season by Terry Venebles, which has lead to speculation about his future at Elland Road. But Harte was linked to Barcelona only a year ago - so a proposed transfer could be quite a coup for Pompey.

Borsi Zikovic is poised to take the spot vacated by the injured Matt Taylor for the curtain raiser against Villa on Saturday.