Peterborough sign Portsmouth left-back Sparkes

Jack Sparkes helped Pompey win promotion in his only season at Fratton Park

Peterborough United have made their sixth summer signing by bringing in left-back Jack Sparkes from promoted Championship club Portsmouth for an undisclosed fee.

The 23-year-old has signed a three-year contract as cover following the loss of fellow summer signing Rio Adebisi.

Left-back Adebisi, who only signed from Crewe Alexandra last week, suffered a knee injury which is expected to keep him out for up to four months.

"Some of Rio's cartilage has come away in a bit of a freak accident," said Posh manager Darren Ferguson. "We had to act quick as Jack was on his way to sign for another club in League One.

"His agent helped. We know him. Arron Davies used to play for me and played here. And we enquired about Jack last season which also helped us."

Sparkes, who began his career at Exeter City, had loans with non-league clubs Torquay United and Chippenham Town before making 43 first-team appearances for Pompey last season as they won promotion to the Championship.

Posh start the new League One season on Saturday 10 August with a home game against Huddersfield Town.