Granqvist raring to go

Last updated : 03 January 2007 By Liam Cooper
The Swedish defender, who has one cap for his country, was Jewell's first January signing and joined on loan from Swedish side Helsingborg, with a view to making the move permanent if he impresses.

"I can't wait to start playing and fighting for my place," said Granqvist. "Hopefully, I can feature at Portsmouth in the FA Cup this weekend if the international clearance is sorted.

"It is obviously not my decision, but I feel ready physically."

It is yet to be seen whether Jewell will throw Granqvist in, due to the Swedish season already ending meaning the defender is probably not fully match fit.

Granqvist might not be the only new signing in the squad to face Portsmouth. Midfielder Haestad joined just days after Granqvist, and both could be joined by former striker Nathan Ellington, his Baggies team-mate Zoltan Gera, Evertonian Beattie and possiby Birmingham's Matthew Upson.