Scott Hiley

Hiley began his long career at Exeter City where he signed professional forms in August 1986.

After over 200 games for the club he joined Birmingham City in March 1994 for £ 100,000.

Much of his career at Birmingham was blighted by injury problems and he joined Manchester City after less than 50 appearances in three seasons in February 1996 for a fee of £ 250,000.

He found his appearances while at City very limited and, after only a handful of matches, he joined Southampton on a free transfer in August 1998.

He was used as cover for right back Jason Dodd, and made himself a regular member of the team when Jason was moved to the centre of the defence.

He was moved down the pecking order when Southampton signed Joe Tessem and was allowed to join Portsmouth for only £50,000 in December 1999.

He went out of favour with the management, Hiley's career at Fratton Park was resurrected by Steve Claridge and he went on to hit some of his best-ever form.

Playing either at right back or in the centre of defence, he performed consistently well, even when the team was struggling, and impressed the Pompey faithful with his excellent first touch, ability to read the game and composure in difficult situations.

His fine performances won him the supporters' 'Player of the Year' award.

After spending most of the 2001-02 season as a regular and team captain, it was a big surprise when he made available for transfer at the end of the campaign.