Portsmouth transfers: Danny Cowley reveals key factor in signing Sunderland and ex-Millwall striker Aiden O’Brien

The 28-year-old striker has joined the Blues from League One rivals Sunderland, on a permanent deal until the end of the season.

And the Fratton chief has detailed his delight in bringing the Republic of Ireland international to the south coast.

The ex-Millwall man has become Pompey’s fifth summer acquisition, and the second from the Black Cats, by following Denver Hume to Fratton Park.

Indeed, O’Brien’s versatility was undoubtedly a reaon why the former Lincoln head coach plotted to sign him, with the attacker able to operate as a number 10, on the wing, and as a striker.

And he leaves the Stadium of Light after netting 12 goals in 65 appearances in red and white.

Cowley told Pompey’s official website: “We’re really pleased to sign Aiden and from the moment I spoke to him, there was an energy and enthusiasm to join us.

“We’re lucky to be at such a renowned football club because there are so many players who want to come here.

“Aiden brings us many different qualities and can play across the forward line, making penetrative runs.

“He looks after the ball well and links the play, while he can also drive forward and is always a goal threat.

“We’re really looking forward to him being part of this group and he knows quite a few of the lads already, which is important when you arrive on a short-term contract.”

The signing of O’Brien looks likely to conclude Pompey’s business this winter, despite the club looking to bring in an additional midfielder.

Their pursuit of Rotherham’s Jamie Lindsay proved fruitless, while the complicated nature of any deal for Middlesbrough’s Lewis Wing ended their interest in the winger.

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

Get 30 per cent off our sport subscription, which gives readers unlimited access to all our Pompey and grassroots coverage for just 9p a day, by using the promo code JanSports30. The deal expires at midnight on January 31.