Portsmouth are confident of having their transfer embargo lifted.

The Daily Star says the ban was implemented because Pompey failed to maintain payment instalments due on three players they bought from three different clubs when Alexandre Gaydamak was the owner.

It is thought Pompey had fallen behind on money due to Chelsea after they bought Glen Johnson, to Arsenal following the signing of Lassana Diarra, and to Watford for the purchase of Tommy Smith.

Ironically, only Smith is still at Fratton Park, although it's understood the instalment on the £2m owed on him has now been paid.