Portsmouth Football Club News

• Nickname:Pompey
• Founded:1898
• Manager:Michael Appleton

• Ground:Fratton Park
• Capacity:19,179

Niemi returns with Pompey

07 Aug 2009 - 14:59:58

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Portsmouth have lured veteran goalkeeper Antti Niemi out of retirement to provide cover during the forthcoming season.

The 37-year-old Finn had announced he was quitting the game when he left former club Fulham in September 2008.

Niemi, who has also spent time at Southampton, Hearts and Rangers, will provide competition for fellow evergreen keeper David James at Fratton Park.

"Antti has got vast experience and will be a welcome addition to the squad," caretaker manager Paul Hart told the club's official website.

"Our goalkeeping coach David Coles worked with him in the past and told me all about his character and his quality.

"He has a massive appetite to succeed and he relishes a challenge.

"It provides David James with some good competition and also allows Asmir Begovic to go out on loan, while Jamie Ashdown needs first-team football as well."

Meanwhile, midfielder Arnold Mvuemba has left the club after his contract was terminated by mutual consent.