You have to hand it to Harry Redknapp. There’s no beating around the bush where the Portsmouth manager is concerned, he just opens up and reveals who he wants to sign and the obstacles preventing him from doing so (usually a hefty transfer fee).

The Press Association report that the former West Ham manager wants to sign a Spurs defender who is surplus to requirements, and of course that diminutive winger from Chelsea who has endured a fair few splinters in his rear end since signing from Manchester City a few seasons ago.

He told Portsmouth News: “I know Shaun and his dad (former Arsenal and England ace Ian Wright) think Portsmouth would be a good move for him. And I would like a centre-half. Younes Kaboul wants to come here, but I heard Kaboul is going to Villa. I don’t think there is anything he can do about it.”

“Nicky Shorey at Reading is someone who I like, but he isn’t going to come cheaply,” he added.

Looks like there’s a pretty solid chance of SWP signing for Pompey - surely another example of Redknapp getting hold of a player with bags of talent and helping them kickstart their career. With him and Kranjcar on the wings, feeding Defoe and Crocuh with crosses, it could be an enjoyable season for Fratton Park attendees.