Michael Morrison: Portsmouth sign experienced defender on one-year deal

Michael Morrison scored the last of his eight goals for Reading in a 2-1 win over Stoke City in April

League One side Portsmouth have signed former Reading centre-back Michael Morrison.

The 34-year-old, who has played more than 500 games in the Championship and League One, has agreed a one-year deal.

Morrison left Reading after three seasons in May, having spent the previous five years at Birmingham City.

He has also had spells at Leicester City, Sheffield Wednesday and Charlton Athletic after beginning his career with Cambridge United in non-league.

"He's a fantastic character and will be able to offer great support to the younger members of our group," Portsmouth boss Danny Cowley told the club website.

"Michael has been a captain pretty much everywhere that he's been and brings leadership qualities that will help drive our standards on and off the pitch.

"He's been very successful in the Championship and has played regularly in that division over the past few years.

"He can sense danger and has got an excellent ability to read play, while he loves to defend and his organisational skills are great."

'Still work for Pompey to do'

Analysis - BBC Radio Solent's Portsmouth commentator Andy Moon

Portsmouth have been clear their transfer strategy is focused on signing younger players whose values are likely to increase but there's always room in a squad for players who can come in and immediately make the team better.

Morrison has spent the past 10 years in the Championship and gives Pompey a strong-looking group of centre-backs, something that's important if Danny Cowley is to continue playing three central defenders.

The moves also means Haji Mnoga is likely to head out on loan - there will be no shortage of suitors following a good pre-season. He needs to play regular football if he's to continue his development.

There's still work for Pompey to do in the transfer market and Cowley remains concerned, in particular, by the lack of pace in his forward line.

Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page.