LONDON, July 2 – 2008 FA Cup winners Portsmouth missed out on millions of pounds on Wednesday after their former England Under-21 international Sean Davis moved to Premier League rivals Bolton for free.
Just six months ago Portsmouth had been offered 3.5million pounds by Bolton for the midfielder but had turned it down.
Davis – who has also played top flight football for Fulham and Spurs without ever fully realising his potential – signed a three year contract with his new club.
Bolton manager Gary Megson was ecstatic that he had ultimately got his man, but without paying a penny for him.
"Sean made 40 appearances last season and he will strengthen our midfield," said Megson.
"We wanted to bring him here in January but our bid of 3.5million pounds was turned down by Portsmouth.
"We are delighted to have signed such an experienced Premier League footballer," added Megson.
Davis, who won 12 Under-21 caps, said he was relieved to know where his future lay.
"I am happy my future has been sorted out," he told Bolton’s website.
"I wanted to move to a club where I can play my football and be appreciated.
"Bolton showed genuine interest in January and that was hugely encouraging. It is an exciting opportunity not just for me but my family as well. I want to enjoy my football and take the club forward."
Davis was not the only player to be leaving the club on Wednesday as Pompey released five players Noe Pamarot, veteran Cameroon international Lauren, Glen Little, Djimi Traore and Jerome Thomas.
"We might not be able to get all the players that we need in this transfer window," the Welshman said.
"But going into the new season I fully expect us to be in better shape and better prepared than we were last season.
"I’m delighted to be working with Roque again.
"There were a number of occasions last season when we needed the qualities that Roque brings to the table.
"I know exactly what I’m getting with him.
"He is a young man with huge ambition and a great mentality to his work on a daily basis."
City finished 10th in the 20-team Premier League last season.
