Merson completes Pompey switch

The 34-year-old still had a year left on his contract at Villa Park, but constant clashes with manager Graham Taylor led to him being told he could leave for nothing.

Pompey immediately moved for Merson when they became aware of his availability and now boss Harry Redknapp has sealed the signing of the former Arsenal and Middlesbrough man on a two-year contract.

"We're glad we have got someone who is a very, very good player," said Redknapp.

"Paul has come here to play football. He could have earned twice as much by staying at Aston Villa and drawing his wages.

"Merse said himself that when he was on the playground as a youngster he wasn't playing to earn £1 million, he was playing for the love of the game.

"Some people have got that desire in them and some people haven't. Paul is one of those people who have."