Why Portsmouth new boy turned down Coventry City and Rotherham United to make Fratton move
Josh Koroma revealed he turned down the chance to remain in the Championship as he targeted a second-tier return with Pompey.
The deadline-day arrival from Huddersfield lifted the lid on his whirlwind arrival on a season-long loan, as he set his sights on making an immediate impact at his new club.
Koroma's deal was completed with minutes to go until the 11pm deadline, as he arrived as the 12th and final summer signing.
The versatile striker had offers from a number of clubs, including sides from the Championship with Coventry City and Rotherham keen.
But the lure of Pompey and the chance to deliver success at Fratton Park in what is shaping up to be a promising season, was the option which appealed to the 23-year-old.
Koroma said: ‘I got a call a few days ago, so it was something I knew about.
‘The two clubs were talking about what they need to talk about and it was just a case of whether it would get done. Thankfully last night it got done.
‘I didn’t get down here until 2am and then it’s been straight in for training and preparing for the game
‘There were a couple of other clubs but Portsmouth was the one I wanted to go with.
‘I could have stayed in the Championship, but I know the managers here and they know how to get the best out of me. That was a big factor in me coming.
‘The size of Pompey is massive - the stadium, the fans, club - everything.
‘That definitely played a part in me coming here. ‘
Koroma will once again be linking up with Danny Cowley with the pair acquainted from the Pompey boss’ time at Huddersfield.
The former Leyton Orient man enjoyed working with the Blues boss in his time at the Terriers.
Koroma pointed to Cowley’s record at developing young players as evidence of why he wants to work with him again.
He added: ‘Danny is a great guy and a great manager.
‘You just have to look at his track record - he’s known for improving young players. I haven’t got a bad word to say about him.
‘Hopefully I can now play a part in the push to get to the Championship.
‘I’ve trained with the players and from what I’ve seen they look more than capable and good enough. Hopefully we can now kick on.’