Pompey snap up Diabate

The Ivory Coast international spent last season with French side Auxerre after four previous seasons with fellow Championnat club Bordeaux, but has now moved to England and signed a one-year deal with the Fratton Park outfit.

The 28-year-old has experience in European club competitions and has represented his country in the African Cup of Nations.

Diabate played alongside Manchester City's Ali Benarbia at Bordeaux and is looking to have the same impact in the centre of midfield for Pompey as his old team-mate has had at Maine Road.

The out-of-contract star joins the Division One leaders after two unsuccessful trials at Middlesbrough and Blackburn Rovers.

On the signing of Diabate, Portsmouth chief executive Peter Storrie told the club's official website: "We are delighted to welcome another quality player to the club and strengthen the squad.

"Lassina is another player who has competed consistently at the highest level and will be a valuable asset to Pompey."