Eoin Doyle: My relief at sealing Pompey switch

The 28-year-old Irishman had fallen out of favour at parent club Preston, sparking a bidding war for his services involving a number of League One and League Two clubs.

With boss Paul Cook – who had worked with Doyle previously at both Sligo Rovers and Chesterfield – making him his prime target, hopes were high at Fratton Park the Blues could lure the striker to the south coast.

As it was, though, Pompey’s prolonged pursuit went all the way to the final day, before Doyle put pen to paper with the club.

And now he has arrived, Doyle is keen for more success working under Cook.

He said: ‘It was a stressful few days the last few days of the window but I am glad I am here now.

‘That’s my third deadline-day move so I am used to them now but they are not nice for me or my family or anyone involved in them.

‘You don’t know whether it is going to happen or what is going to happen to you if you end up staying at your club.

‘They are not nice days but I am glad it got done in the end.

‘The manager - I have had success with the gaffer before - and the size of the club drew me here

‘Me and the gaffer have had two spells together previous to this together and they have both been successful.

‘Hopefully it is third time lucky.’