Portsmouth manager Tony Adams has likened new signing Angelos Basinas to Pedro Mendes.
Pompey boss likens new boy to an old favourite
Portsmouth manager Tony Adams has likened new signing Angelos Basinas to former Fratton Park favourite Pedro Mendes.
The 33-year-old was manager Tony Adams' only signing on transfer deadline day after arriving from AEK Athens on an 18-month contract.
The Greece international captain was due to meet his new team-mates on Tuesday as he settles down to life on the South Coast.
The former England captain feels he should not have any problems adapting to the English game and admitted that he sees similarities with Mendes.
"This is the captain of his country who has still got the legs and can still get around the pitch," he said.
"Angelos is very good technically and I think he can get us playing winning football again.
"Like Pedro used to do when he was here, he can get the ball and is very good with it. He can get the team ticking.
"I actually think he's very similar to Pedro in many ways.
"Angelos can get the ball down and play, he always makes himself available and makes good angles.
Delivery
"He's a good football player who is comfortable on the ball. I have seen him recently for his country and he is a very good player who has excellent delivery from free-kicks and corners. He can give us plenty believe me.
"I don't think Athens have been paying his wages. They have a bit of a money problem there, so we've got him for a very good deal. I think he'll be an excellent signing for us."
Basinas himself believes he can use his experience to help turn around the club's fortunes and even reveals that he turned down the chance to join Pompey four years ago.
"I'm very happy, I wanted this move very much," he enthused.
"The circumstances now are different from four years ago because Portsmouth are more established in the Premier League.
"When I went to Spain to join Real Mallorca they were fighting against relegation and I helped them a lot. I am confident I will be able to do the same for Portsmouth.
"I have wanted for many years to play in the Premier League and this is a fantastic move for me.
"La Liga is a great league but I'm looking forward to seeing how the Premier League compares."
