Forde's focused on new chapter at Pompey

And the new Blues keeper has promised to bring the vocal presence and authority between the sticks Paul Cook is looking for.

Forde yesterday sealed his season-long loan at Fratton Park from League One outfit Millwall.

That ends Cook’s search for the man to bring experience to his goalkeeping options.

The 36-year-old, who is expected to feature in today’s friendly at Bristol City (3pm), breaks a long association with the Lions as he steps down a division.

But the Republic of Ireland international is hungry to gain regular first-team football as he reaches the latter stages of his days in the game.

Forde senses he can be part of something at his new club this season.

He intends to bring the conviction to the goalkeeping position Pompey were often lacking last season.

Forde said: ‘There’s a great vibe about the place.

‘There’s a great buzz here and the lads are very enthusiastic and focused.

‘We’re concentrated and I plan to come down here and bring success.

‘This is about Portsmouth and a new chapter for the club and also my career.

‘If we can be successful it could be an amazing journey. I want to be a part of that.

‘It’s a great football club and to play in front of big crowds and full houses is what you dream of as a player.

‘I spoke to Robbo (Paul Robinson) and he had nothing but fantastic things to say about the club.

‘The manager’s passion for the game is so appealing and it’s infectious. He lives for it.

‘I’m a big, physical goalkeeper. I demand a lot from my back four and I’m very vocal.

‘I see my myself as a consistent all-round goalkeeper. I want to bring that consistency into the side.

‘It’s about being professional and getting the job done.

‘My aim and goal is to achieve that – that’s what my role in the team is all about.’

Forde’s time at Millwall is at a close after making 349 appearances over eight years.

But he had to settle for limited minutes last season, making nine starts.

Forde now finds himself in the veteran category and is determined to make the most of the days he has remaining in football.

He feels he arrives at Pompey in the best shape of his career, though, as he looks to make his mark with a substantial pre-season under his belt.

Forde said: ‘I feel like I’m in the best shape of my life at the moment. I’ve had a good four weeks of pre-season.

‘It’s probably the longest pre-season I’ve had for many years with international breaks, play-offs and promotions.

‘It’s great to get that conviction back in my game again and to have that concentration and focus.

‘I’m really looking forward to this challenge now.’