CHERRIES defender Stephane Zubar looks set for a long-awaited return to Football League action after joining League One Port Vale on a month-long loan deal.

The 27-year-old, who has not played for Cherries’ first team in two years, was a target for then-Valiants boss Micky Adams in the summer but fitness proved a sticking point.

However, Adams's successor - interim boss Rob Page - recently made clear his interest and a temporary switch was finalised for the Guadeloupe-born man, who has had trials at Cambridge United, Partick Thistle and Crewe in recent months.

Speaking to Vale’s official website, Zubar said: “He (Adams) wanted me to come on trial last June but I wasn’t fit enough, so two weeks ago my agent rang me and I told him straight away that if it could happen, I would be pleased.

“What player would not want to play for Port Vale? It is a big club with a big stadium and a big pitch and it is just perfect. Now it is up to me to show the manager what I can bring to the side and I am looking forward to it.

“I have played in League One before and have also played in the Europa League, so I feel I can bring experience to the team and it is a great opportunity for me.”

Zubar, whose Dean Court contract expires at the end of this season, last played for Cherries in October 2012 in the 3-1 defeat to Crawley Town, the night before Paul Groves was sacked as manager.

He subsequently spent time on loan at Bury but picked up a serious knee injury in the 4-1 defeat to Notts County in February 2013 and has not featured in the Football League since.

Zubar is in contention to go straight into the Vale squad for this weekend’s trip to Fleetwood Town.