Source: SKY_Sports
Hart key to Mokoena move
Aaron Mokoena has revealed that Paul Hart played an integral role in his decision to join Portsmouth.
The South African skipper has penned a three-year contract with Pompey after leaving Blackburn as a free agent at the end of last season.
The 28-year-old midfielder is set to join up with his new team-mates this weekend, having been granted extra time off following his Confederations Cup exploits this summer.
His agent, Ivan Modia, claims Mokoena is looking forward to beginning a new chapter in his career and remains hopeful that Hart, who led Pompey on an interim basis during the second half of last season, will be offered the Fratton Park post on a full-time basis.
Modia told The News: "Aaron is flying in this weekend and is very excited about playing for Portsmouth.
"There was interest from Wolves, they were keen to sign him to be an experienced member of the squad that will be in the Premier League this season.
"But he decided to go to Portsmouth because it is a better challenge than Wolves. They have been in the Premier League for a number of years and the confidence Paul Hart has shown in him in their conversations was also key.
"In fact, Mr Hart is the main reason why he is here. The manager is very straight and close to the players. He is smart and thoughtful, communicates well with the players and comes across as though he is also going to listen.
"Aaron spoke to a few players about the manager before he made his decision and they said only good things about him.
"Mr Hart is a good manager and did well keeping the club up last season. Face-to-face he's also a very-down-to-earth guy who is going to tell you the reality of the expectations.
"Mr Hart and Peter Storrie have told Aaron they want to move the club forward and he also wants to do the business.
"He's looking forward to the challenge and has already found a place to live in Portsmouth. He wants to be settled in as soon as possible and start showing what he can do."
Modia has also moved to assure Pompey fans that Mokoena's work permit application is expected to go through without a hitch.
"The work permit is going to be fine. That's in Portsmouth's hands and they have to sign a couple of things," he added.
"Aaron fulfils all the requirements, there is nothing to worry about there."
