EDDIE HOWE is determined to put two years of injury hell behind him and help Swindon Town to Second Division promotion glory.

The 26-year-old Portsmouth defender (pictured, in blue shirt) feared his career could be in tatters after three knee operations in the last couple of seasons but he is now fit, hungry for first team football and desperate to make up for lost time.

A loan deal has been agreed between Andy King and Harry Redknapp which will see Howe remain at the County Ground until the end of the current campaign.

Having played virtually no football since dislocating a kneecap on the opening day of last season against Nottingham Forest, Howe cannot wait to get started.

A twisted ankle is likely to scupper hopes of a debut against Barnsley tomorrow but Howe, who was due to meet his new teammates this morning, is in the frame for next Tuesday's trip to Port Vale.

He said: "I spoke to Harry Redknapp after training at Portsmouth yesterday and he told me about Swindon's interest. It came out of the blue as I wasn't expecting to go anywhere.

"I've heard very positive things about the club from a number of people so it was an easy decision to make.

"The team is in a great position in the league with everything still to play for and the manager is really enthusiastic about what's happening at the club.

"There is a really positive feeling and I'm looking forward to getting started.

"It would be fantastic to end the season with a promotion and hopefully we can all make that happen."

Howe has endured an injury-ravaged spell at Fratton Park since joining Pompey from Bournemouth in a £400,000 deal in March 2002.

The former England Under 21 international has been a frustrated spectator as Pompey first gained promotion to the Premiership and now battle to stay in it.

He said: "It has been frustrating and doubts go through your mind but it's no good looking back."

Manager Andy King is delighted to have Howe on board.

He said: "He's come from a Premiership club, which makes a statement, he's experienced at this level and can play in more than one role.

"He's known as a central defender but I've spoken to him about other positions.

"It means I can play around with a number of systems and personnel if needed."

Howe's signing was King's second success on deadline day after he was able to complete the signing of Sean O'Hanlon on a free transfer from Everton.

He said: "Sean is the future. He's proved himself while he's been on loan and shown he can handle the Second Division. I think he will prove to be a great asset. Again, another player who can do a job in more than one role."