CHARLTON shot-stopper Dean Kiely has moved to Premiership rivals Portsmouth for an undisclosed fee.

The 35-year-old, who has been between the sticks at The Valley for six and a half years, passed a medical earlier this week and signed for the south coast club on Wednesday.

Kiely was a virtual ever-present in the Charlton side since signing from Bury in 1999.

However, during the last close season he broke a finger and lost his place to Stephan Andersen.

When Andersen's form dipped Keily returned only to be replaced himself by Thomas Myhre who has since made the number one jersey his own with impressive performances.

Addicks boss Alan Curbishley said: "It is a disappointing day because we've reluctantly allowed Deano to leave to pursue first-team football.

"He has been a wonderful servant to the club and has been instrumental in everything we have achieved in the last six years."

Speaking to the Portsmouth website Kiely said: "It is great to be here and the move has given me a real lift.

"I broke my finger when I was at Charlton and suddenly I was not playing and in my years as a professional I have always wanted to be playing on a Saturday.

"So I raced down in my car when I knew of Portsmouth's interest and it is great to have joined."

The former Republic of Ireland international added: "I have played at Fratton Park a few times over the years so I know how great the supporters are and I know Andy O'Brien in the current team from the Ireland squad."