Portsmouth sign Ivory Coast international

Harry Redknapp
By Paul Holmes
October 2 2002

Portmsouth boss Harry Redknapp has brought another player to Fratton Park, Ivory Coast international Lassina Diabate.

The midfielder joins the South coast club on a free-transfer after his contract with French club Auxerre was not extended.

The 28-year-old also spent four years with Bordeaux in France's Championnat Division.

Diabate had trails with Middlesbrough and Blackburn in the summer but failed to impress enough to earn a contract.

Portsmouth chief executive Peter Storrie was pleased with the singing when speaking to 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 consitently at the highest level and will be a valuable asset to Pompey".