Portsmouth complete Schemmel deal

Premiership newcomers Portsmouth have completed the signing of French defender Sebastien Schemmel from West Ham on a Bosman free transfer.

Pompey boss Harry Redknapp, who has returned to his old club to make the signing, is undaunted by the former Metz player's reputation.

Redknapp told his club's official website: "I'm more than happy to take him on.
"He will definitely do for me as I don't mind the so-called bad boys because they keep you on your toes and make life interesting."

Schemmel, 28, joined West Ham from Metz two years ago in a deal worth almost £500,000.

He was recently fined two weeks' wages at Upton Park for his public criticism of manager Glenn Roeder.

Schemmel insisted Roeder and the club's coaching staff were responsible for the Hammers' relegation last season and claimed he was being frozen out at the club.