Well, it was always going to happen. Mandaric has sacked yet another manager, this time Alain Perrin, who has been – how can I put this politely? – less than spectacular. His tenure lasted just seven months. Since 1999 when Mandaric took control, Portsmouth have parted with managers Alan Ball, Tony Pulis, Steve Claridge, Graham Rix and Harry Redknapp.
With only one win in nine games, and our exit from the Carling Cup, Mandaric has taken action. The Pompey chief said:
‘This has not been an easy conclusion to reach. Alain Perrin is a talented coach and a good, honest man who has worked extremely hard since his arrival in the summer. We are all extremely grateful to him for his dedication to the club. The view taken, however, is that recent performances and the general morale amongst the squad needed improvement. Following a period of thought and consultation with the board, the players, staff and supporters, I have made this decision for the future of Portsmouth Football Club.’
He also says that a replacement will hopefully be in very soon and that Joe Jordan has agreed to take temporary charge.
Mandaric continued: ‘We have some wonderfully talented players and the most passionate supporters in the country. I will now turn my attention to attracting a successful manager to Fratton Park. I am confident we will find the right man for the job to help Pompey get the season back on track. I would like to wish Alain all the very best for the future and thank him once again for his contribution over the past few months.’
Burley is a front runner as he is available and was bringing great success to Hearts before his exit. Neil Warnock has also been linked following the news that the Blade’s board aren’t looking to give him a new deal until later in the season. Roy Keane was also linked to a player manager role.
Have your say and vote in our poll. Who do you want to be manager at Pompey?
Alain Perrin has become the first Premiership manager to face the axe this season and William Hill have already adjusted their odds to judge who will be next! The early favourites are David O’Leary at 11/4, Steve Bruce 7/2 and Mick McCarthy at 13/2.
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