Former Swindon ace Devera thrilled to seal Pompey switch

The central defender met Guy Whittingham for opening talks on Monday following his recent release from Swindon.

He then penned a two-year deal yesterday to become the Blues’ ninth pre-season signing.

Devera, who played in the Robins’ recent play-off semi-final defeat to Brentford, was convinced by Whittingham and his Pompey ambition.

Despite other clubs being interested, he swiftly signed up yesterday at Fratton Park.

Now the 26-year-old, who won the League Two title with Swindon in 2011-12, is expecting big things with his new club.

He said: ‘It’s a big club and at the start of something massive.

‘The only way is up and it feels like a positive move.

‘I came for talks on Monday and everything just felt right for me.

‘I went away and thought about it overnight and it seemed this was the place for me. It was definitely for me.

‘It really appealed to me, the stadium, the manager, everything. I just felt it.

‘It’s going to be a hard season and a long season as well.

‘But if we are willing to put in the work I think it’s going to be a massive chance to go up.’

Devera made 66 appearances and scored three goals during his two seasons with Swindon Town.

He featured in a total of 31 matches and was right-back in the 5-0 New Year’s Day defeat of Pompey.

Before that he rose through the ranks at Barnet, appearing 201 times for them and scoring two goals.