Buxton's minerals will bolster Pompey

But Paul Cook has challenged the new arrival to build his fitness levels after his exit from Accrington Stanley.

Buxton sealed a one-year deal at Fratton Park yesterday and will bolster competition in both full-back positions.

The 24-year-old impressed the Blues boss in 31 appearances for John Coleman’s side this season.

Cook believes he will fit in with his philosophy of playing the game.

‘He’s played a lot of games and is very versatile,’ said Cook.

‘It’s a great opportunity for Adam coming in. He played a lot of games last season for a team who finished above us.

‘He’s very much a footballer and the type of player we like.

‘With him coming in he’s versatile in both positions.’

Buxton started his career at Wigan, before moving to the Crown Ground in 2014.

But Accrington stalled over offering him a new deal this summer, allowing Pompey to swoop.

The Scouser picked up a slight groin issue in pre-season, meaning he’s had to play catch up with his fitness.

Cook said: ‘Technically, Adam will be as good as anyone as we will see.

‘We must work on his physicality and agility. His fitness levels must improve.

‘Adam is aware of this and it’s something we are going to work together on. Hopefully we can turn him into the player we all want him to be.

‘He’s been with Accrington through pre-season and had a little groin injury.

‘But he’s done a lot of his pre-season work there.

‘He’s a good player but they’ve had until August 4 to sign him, so it’s not our problem.’