Peter Grant has made his first transfer move since taking over the Canary reins and signed Portsmouth 'keeper Jamie Ashdown on a one-month loan.

CITY boss Peter Grant has made his first transfer move since taking over the Canary reins and signed Portsmouth 'keeper Jamie Ashdown on a one-month loan.

Ashdown joins the Canary squad today and is eligible to play against league leaders Cardiff in Saturday's Coca-Cola Championship clash at Carrow Road if called upon.

The Reading-born 25-year-old rose through the ranks with his hometown club the Royals but struggled to displace Marcus Hahnemann and instead gained experience during various loan spells at Gravesend, Bournemouth and Rushden & Diamonds

In June 2004 the 6ft 3ins former England schoolboy signed a four-year contract at Fratton Park. He spent much of 2005-06 season as Pompey's first choice goalkeeper but his chances were limited with the arrival of Dean Kiely.

According to the Pompey website, his 'immense confidence and regular spectacular saves have impressed both fans and management'.

Grant told Norwich City's official website the move was designed to intensify competition for the number one jersey.

He commented: "Jamie was a young 'keeper at Reading when I was there and I was impressed with his quality then. We also had him on loan at Bournemouth, but he only played a couple of games then got injured.

"I've been following his career closely and he is an excellent goalkeeper. He's now got some Premiership experience under his belt with Portsmouth as well, which is important.

“This is about increasing the competitive edge and getting the keepers fighting for that number one jersey. That's something ideally you like to have all over the pitch.

“We've now got three quality experienced keepers here in Gallacher, Camp and Ashdown, plus one very good youngster in Joe Lewis."

Grant confirmed England Under-21 'keeper Camp, on-loan from Derby, has been suffering from a back injury and only started training today.

Ashdown will not be eligible to play in the Carling Cup match at Port Vale on Tuesday.