Portsmouth's David James set for surprise switch to Stoke City

The Portsmouth goalkeeper David James is set to join Stoke City on loan until the end of the season, according to reports last night. The move is thought to hinge on Portsmouth's willingness to pay a proportion of the player's wages, though the south coast club's financial situation could preclude such an agreement. James is reported to have a clause in his contract that triggers an automatic extension to his deal should he play a set number of Premier League games with Pompey. With the club eager to avoid that situation, the goalkeeper is keen to secure a move that would guarantee first-team football as he tries to win a place in England's squad for the World Cup in South Africa. James has won 49 caps for his country, but has not played in England's last two fixtures.