A lack of first-team action prompted Diarra, 23, to reject the easy life, first at Chelsea and then the Emirates.

Instead, he opted for the challenge of turning Pompey into a Premier League force.

And he believes the Blues' run to a Wembley Cup final has vindicated his £5m move.

He said: 'I knew when I signed for Pompey we had a good squad, a good team.

'That's why we are in the final and that's why I am here.

'I want to win something for Portsmouth.

'It's very good to play every week. This is why I am a pro, I want to show what I can do.

'This is why I went to Portsmouth and why I moved from Chelsea and Arsenal.

'We have a good squad who can do something good this year.

'I hope tomorrow we can win to qualify for Europe.

'Getting into Europe is important. We need to win for the club, the fans and the manager because they have been good to me.'

Diarra is too canny to underestimate Dave Jones' Cardiff.

And he wants all his team-mates to be on their mettle in order to bring home the trophy.

Diarra added: 'I think if we play our football tomorrow we are going to win.

'I have a lot of respect for Cardiff. They are a good team but we have to play our football. We are Portsmouth and we have to win.

'I know how important it is for the city, but as a player we have to think about the pitch, the fans, the manager and everyone at the club. I know we have to play for the city – but we have to focus.'

The midfielder's fierce ambition and imposing performance betray a man ultra-confident in his ability.

He said: 'Maybe that's because I was with Mr Mourinho!

'I joined Chelsea when I was 19. When you play every day with big players you feel comfortable with your football.

'Jose (left) was special for me. When I was there he spoke to me, not like my dad, but he explained many things to me and I hope he takes control of a big team soon.

'He told me: "You are at Chelsea because you are quality. You must work, you are young and your time will come".'