New Pompey keeper can make difference

And the goalkeeper will bring the assured presence between the sticks the Blues are searching for.

That’s the view of former Blues defender Paul Robinson, with Forde set to arrive on a season-long loan from Millwall.

Robinson knows all about the 36-year-old with the pair team-mates at The Den for six years.

He believes the Republic of Ireland international was unlucky to not go to the European Championships, with his most recent cap arriving in May.

But he is impressed with the impending piece of business from Paul Cook.

Robinson said: ‘He’ll be a good signing, that’s for sure.

‘He’ll dominate his box well and he’s a great character around the dressing room.

‘Being a Republic of Ireland international for as long as he’s been tells you it all really.

‘I think he’s going to be a very shrewd acquisition for Pompey.

‘He was unfortunate not to go to the Euros. Maybe Keiren Westwood’s play-off final performance for Sheffield Wednesday gave him the edge.

‘But I’m sure he’s going to be keen to get back out there, play football and be a good signing for Portsmouth.

‘He didn’t play as much as he was used to last season, so I’m sure he’s desperate to come down and fight hard for that number one jersey.

‘He’s good in the dressing room and can have that fiery side because he wants to win.

‘But he’s good among the lads and has a real drive to win and get the best out of the lads and himself.

‘Nailing down that area could be the last piece for Pompey.

‘I really think this is going to be their year looking at their signings.

‘The manager has recruited well all around the pitch and they are looking strong.’

Despite edging towards the latter stages of his career, Robinson sees no issue with Forde’s age and believes he still has much to offer.

And the man who left for AFC Wimbledon last summer explained he’s given a ringing endorsement of what Forde can expect at Pompey.

Robinson said: ‘At 36, he is still fine for a goalkeeper.

‘Pompey fans will see he looks after himself and he works hard.

‘He’s still going to be getting the best out of himself and has plenty of good years ahead of him.

‘He’s been at Millwall a long time and we had good times and achieved success – he was a big part of that.

‘Now he can take that experience and use it at Portsmouth.

‘I’ve given him a call a couple of days ago and we’ll catch up in due course.

‘I left a message saying I couldn’t recommend Pompey enough and what a great club it is.

‘He’s going to really enjoy playing for those fans and the club.’