The Algerian left-back says that he would not be opposed to rejoining Harry Redknapp in north London.
Algerian international defender Nadir Belhadj has told Le Buteur magazine that he is prepared to leave Portsmouth if they receive a serious offer for him, particularly if it is to join former coach Harry Redknapp at Tottenham Hotspur. While the player stressed that he was still loyal to his current club, he also made it clear that he would be open to becoming a Spur.“All I know is that Redknapp was behind me coming to Portsmouth and that he has confidence in my qualities. Thus, I couldn’t refuse an offer from Tottenham, especially if it's coming from Redknapp,” he explained in the interview.Meanwhile, the 27-year-old disagreed with the notion that such a transfer would be unwise in a year leading up to the World Cup for reasons of stability.“It’s true that the change requires adaptation and that stability can permit me to go through qualifiers with Algeria in good conditions, but if I switch and I’m a starter, it’s not bad,” he added.
Thursday, 13 August 2009
Pompey owner 'excited, nervous' on new venture
New Portsmouth chairman Sulaiman Al Fahim said on Thursday he was “excited and nervous”, as he waits for the start of the new Premier League season on Saturday. In his first interview since taking over as chairman of the club earlier this month, the UAE property tycoon has outlined his long term vision for the club, and hit back at critics who have cast doubt on the deal.Speaking exclusively to Arabian Business, Al Fahim said he cannot wait for the team’s first match against Fulham.“It’s a very big day for everyone involved. It’s the first time I will have been to a Premier League match, and I want the same as everybody else in Portsmouth – three points. "We have a tough game the following weekend at Arsenal, so it’s crucial we get off to a good start. But the mood in the camp is very positive, and I have been impressed with everything I have seen so far.”Al Fahim’s intentions to take over the club were first made public on May 27, since when he has been at the cente of a protracted takeover process. Many commentators have criticised the length of time the deal is taking to complete, and cast doubt on whether he has the finances to run the club.But Al Fahim is adamant he can do the job. “I wouldn’t have gone into this if I didn’t have the resources. You don’t try and buy a house that you can’t afford. I had been looking at getting involved in the Premier League since last year, and Portsmouth was a club that ticked all the right boxes financially, in terms of size. "But when I visited the town, and met some of the supporters, I knew straight away this was the right club to invest in,” he said, adding: “They are the most passionate and loyal people you can have supporting a club. Of course everyone single one of them has a view on how it should be run, which is good. "I’d rather own a club that the fans cared about then one they didn’t have any interest in.”Asked whether reports the deal has hit financial trouble are correct, he said: “Taking over a club is a complicated process. It is not just a soccer team, it is a major business. And there are responsibilities to the entire town and community. "Yes, it has taken longer than I would have liked, but it has to be done properly, and that’s what we are doing. The media like to make some mischief, and sometimes they report things that are not true. "I can’t help that, I can only focus on the job in front of me, which is what I am doing. I was told there would be a lot of media attention, but I try to ignore what is written in the papers and the blogs, because it is written by people who are only guessing. "My responsibility is to the club and the fans, not tabloid newspaper reporters. Having said that, I have always been very open with the media and that won’t change. They all have my number, and if they ring me 100 times, I will answer my phone a hundred times. "They have their job to do, but they must respect that I also have a job to do."With several players having been sold, there have been growing concerns that the club will struggle to stay in the Premier League. But again, Al Fahim says he is very positive for the season ahead. “We haven’t played one minute yet, and already everyone is giving their opinion, which they are entitled to. I have spent time at the club, I know the squad we have and I know the likely players we will add to this squad. "Do I think we will still be in Premier League next season? 100% yes. I am excited and nervous. I think we will have a good season. Do you really think I would buy a club that I thought was going to be relegated?”He added: “A team on paper is different to the one on the field. Look at Real Madrid a few years ago, they had players like Beckham and Zidane. And they didn’t win anything. Look at Arsenal, they play some of the best football in the world, and they have some incredible players. "But they haven’t won anything for longer than Portsmouth. There is more to a team then names – there is commitment, there is desire and team spirit. We have all those in abundance, and there will also be more names to come."Al Fahim is keen to play down suggestions that he needs “big names” to strengthen the squad. “If you see how Manchester United became successful, it was through their academy. Players like Beckham and Scholes, and Giggs came from there. We will invest in our youth academy and make it first rate. We will also look at young players from abroad, especially South America, hopefully we can bring some talent from there as well. "This is club that is going to be steadily developed over many years, and that development has already started. I am not claiming we are going to win the Champions League in two years, but I expect us to show progress each year.”The new owner has been putting the finishing touches to his longer term plans for the club, which are believed to focus on a new stadium, new academy and also many community initiatives. “Portsmouth is more than a football club. It is a town and a community, and I want to play a big part in developing both. I hope the fans will give me the chance to do so. What is my message to them? Give me a chance, I will work hard and try my best for you. Life is never easy, and there will I am sure be many ups and downs on our journey forward. But we are in this together, let us stay together and work together.”
Fulham closing in on Pompey target Mark Viduka
Fulham are closing in on a deal to sign Mark Viduka after the veteran striker flew into London for talks on Wednesday night.
A proposed move to take the 33-year-old free agent to Portsmouth appears to have collapsed, with Sulaiman Al-Fahim’s takeover yet to go through and Paul Hart consequently only able to sign players on loan deals.Craven Cottage boss Roy Hodgson knows his squad will be stretched this season, particularly with their involvement in the Europa League, and is eager to add numbers to the ranks.
A proposed move to take the 33-year-old free agent to Portsmouth appears to have collapsed, with Sulaiman Al-Fahim’s takeover yet to go through and Paul Hart consequently only able to sign players on loan deals.Craven Cottage boss Roy Hodgson knows his squad will be stretched this season, particularly with their involvement in the Europa League, and is eager to add numbers to the ranks.
Portsmouth unaware of Al-Fahim’s proposed visit
Source: euFootball.BIZ
English Portsmouth has indicated that they have no knowledge of Sulaiman Al-Fahim’s intentions to watch the club’s weekend match.
With reports suggested that the potential owner will be visiting the field this Saturday, The Guardian has pointed out that the visit remains a mystery to the club.
Al-Fahim has indicated that he will be stopping by Fratton Park this week, following a trip to North America. Whether or not current owner Alexandre Gaydamak will be appearing at the match remains unclear, although failing to meet with Al-Fahim could prove to be unsettling. While Al-Fahim works to finalise the takeover process, sources have suggested that the deal could still fall through. However, Portsmouth recently issued a statement in response, noting that to their knowledge, Al-Fahim is ‘committed’ to purchasing the club and ‘investing in all areas’. With Al-Fahim remaining adamant about his intentions at Portsmouth, it appears odd that he would not be in contact with the club prior to a visit.
The prospective buyer has also dismissed any plans to take part in a media conference or conduct any formal meetings with supporters.
Al-Fahim, who recently stepped into the role of club chairman, is expected to maintain his low profile this weekend by remaining an obscure member of the audience.
English Portsmouth has indicated that they have no knowledge of Sulaiman Al-Fahim’s intentions to watch the club’s weekend match.
With reports suggested that the potential owner will be visiting the field this Saturday, The Guardian has pointed out that the visit remains a mystery to the club.
Al-Fahim has indicated that he will be stopping by Fratton Park this week, following a trip to North America. Whether or not current owner Alexandre Gaydamak will be appearing at the match remains unclear, although failing to meet with Al-Fahim could prove to be unsettling. While Al-Fahim works to finalise the takeover process, sources have suggested that the deal could still fall through. However, Portsmouth recently issued a statement in response, noting that to their knowledge, Al-Fahim is ‘committed’ to purchasing the club and ‘investing in all areas’. With Al-Fahim remaining adamant about his intentions at Portsmouth, it appears odd that he would not be in contact with the club prior to a visit.
The prospective buyer has also dismissed any plans to take part in a media conference or conduct any formal meetings with supporters.
Al-Fahim, who recently stepped into the role of club chairman, is expected to maintain his low profile this weekend by remaining an obscure member of the audience.
Tuesday, 11 August 2009
Portsmouth in the dark over Sulaiman al-Fahim's plan to watch Fulham match.
• Prospective new owner says he will attend on Saturday
• Club claim they are unaware of his intentions
Portsmouth have not been informed by their prospective new owner, Sulaiman al-Fahim, about his plan to attend the club's opening fixture of the Premier League season, against Fulham at Fratton Park on Saturday.It is also unclear whether the club's current owner, Alexandre Gaydamak, will be at the game. If he fails to attend, this would create the potentially confusing scenario of Fahim not being hosted by the current owner, and might cause further questions regarding the future of the Emirates-based businessman's buy-out.Fahim, who is currently in America, has stated that he will travel to the south coast this week. He hopes that by providing a visible presence, he will underline his commitment to the club as his prolonged takeover heads towards a fifth month.Growing concern over Fahim's ability to finance the deal forced Portsmouth last week to issue a statement which said: "We are assured that Sulaiman al-Fahim is committed to buying the club and investing in all areas."Yet it seems that the 32-year-old's efforts to reassure Portsmouth executives have not extended to him contacting the club and making the hierarchy aware of his decision to attend Saturday's game.Fahim, who is intent on adopting a low-key public persona, has no plans to hold a media conference before or after the Fulham match or to arrange any formal meetings with the supporters. He has been installed as Portsmouth's non-executive chairman but it is understood that even if the club is made aware of his impending visit, Fahim will not be presented to the crowd.His desire to attend the Fulham match could provoke a mixed reception from fans who had generally welcomed his planned purchase of the club from Gaydamak. That sentiment, though, has begun to waver as the season draws closer.Since the deal was announced, in May, Portsmouth have been forced to sell many of their senior squad – including the England players Peter Crouch and Glen Johnson – and they now have only 18 senior first-team players. Portsmouth have crippling debts and bank loans of around £24m, which have to be serviced by the close of the month.Fahim has always argued that the timetable he set out at the beginning of the buy-out has been adhered to – with due diligence and the completion of the Premier League's "fit-and-proper" person test completed in June and July. It is thought that if and when he is in place, Fahim may move to make understanding of the prolonged deal clearer.Portsmouth hope to add at least four senior players to their squad before the close of the summer transfer window on 31 August. The Lyon central defender John Mensah may arrive soon, on loan, and the club's manager, Paul Hart, also hopes to bring in a full-back, a midfielder and a winger.
• Club claim they are unaware of his intentions
Portsmouth have not been informed by their prospective new owner, Sulaiman al-Fahim, about his plan to attend the club's opening fixture of the Premier League season, against Fulham at Fratton Park on Saturday.It is also unclear whether the club's current owner, Alexandre Gaydamak, will be at the game. If he fails to attend, this would create the potentially confusing scenario of Fahim not being hosted by the current owner, and might cause further questions regarding the future of the Emirates-based businessman's buy-out.Fahim, who is currently in America, has stated that he will travel to the south coast this week. He hopes that by providing a visible presence, he will underline his commitment to the club as his prolonged takeover heads towards a fifth month.Growing concern over Fahim's ability to finance the deal forced Portsmouth last week to issue a statement which said: "We are assured that Sulaiman al-Fahim is committed to buying the club and investing in all areas."Yet it seems that the 32-year-old's efforts to reassure Portsmouth executives have not extended to him contacting the club and making the hierarchy aware of his decision to attend Saturday's game.Fahim, who is intent on adopting a low-key public persona, has no plans to hold a media conference before or after the Fulham match or to arrange any formal meetings with the supporters. He has been installed as Portsmouth's non-executive chairman but it is understood that even if the club is made aware of his impending visit, Fahim will not be presented to the crowd.His desire to attend the Fulham match could provoke a mixed reception from fans who had generally welcomed his planned purchase of the club from Gaydamak. That sentiment, though, has begun to waver as the season draws closer.Since the deal was announced, in May, Portsmouth have been forced to sell many of their senior squad – including the England players Peter Crouch and Glen Johnson – and they now have only 18 senior first-team players. Portsmouth have crippling debts and bank loans of around £24m, which have to be serviced by the close of the month.Fahim has always argued that the timetable he set out at the beginning of the buy-out has been adhered to – with due diligence and the completion of the Premier League's "fit-and-proper" person test completed in June and July. It is thought that if and when he is in place, Fahim may move to make understanding of the prolonged deal clearer.Portsmouth hope to add at least four senior players to their squad before the close of the summer transfer window on 31 August. The Lyon central defender John Mensah may arrive soon, on loan, and the club's manager, Paul Hart, also hopes to bring in a full-back, a midfielder and a winger.
Portsmouth 2009/10 preview.
Sky Sports
Uncertainty has made for a miserable summer on the South Coast. With Sulaiman Al Fahim's proposed takeover of Portsmouth still in the balance, the general feeling has spiralled from initial excitement to genuine worry. James Dall considers the implications of the protracted saga ahead of the 2009/10 season, and fears the worst. Way back in May, news of Al Fahim's interest in succeeding current owner Alexandre Gaydamak emerged. I distinctly remember a friend of mine, a Pompey supporter, telephoning me in a giddy manner, high on Arabian fever. It is not unreasonable to react so impulsively - we have all seen what has occurred at Manchester City. Money means signings. Signings please fans.But the process began to drag. Drag horridly. Cue June when I was tasked with writing the club's 'season shape-up'. I made it abundantly clear that the retention of key players (think similar to Portsmouth without Gunwharf Quays) would largely define the fortunes of a side whose squad was already threadbare. A team where the chopping and changing of managers last campaign helped little. A club that only narrowly escaped relegation to the Championship.Almost inevitably, and much to the dismay of Fratton Park followers including my now increasingly sweaty compadre, exits have occurred. England right-back Glen Johnson - Portsmouth's most consistent performer last term, they did not lose a league game with him in the side - joined Liverpool. The only sliver of a silver lining being the seemingly much-needed £17million that changed hands. Then, star striker Peter Crouch, scorer of a third of the club's goals in 2008/09, departed for Tottenham Hotspur for around £9million. Head in hands, indeed.Back to businessman Al Fahim, who passed the Premier League's fit-and-proper persons test in July and was subsequently named Pompey's new chairman. Due diligence had been completed earlier in the month, so all the jigsaw pieces were ready to be, erm, pieced together. The next step is for Al Fahim to strike an agreement over a fee with Gaydamak, but therein lies the sticking point. Still, at least the club now have a permanent manager.Indeed, much conjecture surrounded who might be named as the club's new chief. After Harry Redknapp and Tony Adams left for very different reasons last term, it was up to Paul Hart to oversee a side on the decline and manoeuvre them up the table. That he did admirably, but only on an interim basis. His deal expired at the end of the season. And then, amid the excitement of the takeover, several high-profile names were mooted as his successor.High-profile pair Sven Goran Eriksson and Roberto Mancini were said to be candidates, even Argentina's Diego Maradona was mentioned. But ultimately, as the hysteria petered out, the club turned back to Hart, indicating the reality they find themselves in. It is a difficult task ahead for the experienced coach. He has already conceded Crouch's sale was "necessary", while Portsmouth have even admitted should Al Fahim's takeover bid fall through then further sales could be in the offing. That is the last thing the club need.Djimi Traore, Sean Davis, Glen Little, Noe Pamarot, Lauren and Jerome Thomas have all followed the aforementioned duo in seeking exits. Granted, these players are not world-beaters, but they make up a squad. And, right now, one, with all due respect, would be pushed to label Pompey's current numbers a 'squad'. Hart has been left desperately short, and until sufficient funds are made available to him, he is having to work the market as best he can.South Africa international Aaron Mokoena has arrived from Blackburn Rovers on a free transfer and will add muscle, although they already have similar in Papa Bouba Diop. Steve Finnan has been drafted in for nothing from Espanyol, and will fill the void left by Glen Johnson. However, an injury sustained in pre-season is cause for concern. Completing the trio of arrivals is striker Frederic Piquionne, on loan from Lyon. His YouTube clip of a comical air-shot is fresh in my memory at present.Furthermore, 37-year-old goalkeeper Antti Niemi has come out of retirement to sign for the club. Rest assured, though, that Niemi will provide No.1 shot-stopper David James with competition, not serve as his replacement. Also, Niko Kranjcar says he will remain, the Croat keen to guarantee regular playing time ahead of the 2010 World Cup. Celtic full-back Lee Naylor is a target, while Croatia international Nikola Kalinic also seemed Portsmouth-bound until Blackburn heard of his availability. It also appears David Nugent could leave, with Stoke City and Hull City both alleged admirers.Contract talks with veteran striker Nwankwo Kanu are ongoing but defender Sol Campbell's future seems to lie elsewhere. There are also various players, of them midfielder Modeste M'bami and the fantastically named Eugen Bopp, on trial. Time will tell as to whether Hart deems them up to his standard. With funds all-but unavailable, the coach will have to embark on some serious Redknapp-style wheeling and dealing. Let's talk money matters...As it stands, Al Fahim can offer no funds until he is the proper owner. And in the meanwhile it makes no business sense for Gaydamak to exercise extra outlay on his behalf. This is a Catch-22 situation that will not be resolved until a deal is done. This hurts Portsmouth. They are in theory missing out on deals that could be snapped up. Plus, the next arrivals, if there are to be any at all, will come at a time when the season has already begun. It has even been claimed that they may have to wait until January before investors and backers can assist Al Fahim.This would be a nightmare situation for the fans and Mr Hart. It would be damage limitation until the winter transfer window, and by that time things could be irreparable. The club need clarity. Then they need to be run in a proper manner, the recent high-profile sales indicate previous spending beyond their means. They need only to look at rivals and neighbours Southampton's recent flirtation with liquidation. Right now, Portsmouth need help.FanzoneJames Harrissays: "One word sums up our transfers this summer... depressing! The wealthy Arabian knight in shining armour bounding into Portsmouth on his trusty steed, the Saviour of PFC has turned out to be skinter than a skint person and forget the steed, he is on a donkey! "We are the laughing stock of the football leagues! The ambition of the club for the season has been shown by the appointment of Paul Hart. I am thankful for him keeping us up last year but for some unknown reason we know have more goalkeepers than strikers! "To date we have 16 or so first team players, four of who are keepers! I think I am going to start taking my boots to matches... I may get a start! "I really hope I am wrong and things change; I will support the club no matter who is in charge but would still be nice to win some matches and have something to cheer about! But I fully expect us to struggle this season with the size of our squad and the quality we are left with. It's not going to be a fun year! I hear the odds for us finishing bottom are 14-1 - probably not a bad shout!"
BettingSky Bet'sDale Tempest says: "Portsmouth are 7/4 from 3/1 to go down and Paul Hart will have a real job on his hands to keep his aging squad in the top flight. You look at their back five. They have brought Steve Finnan in to join Sol Campbell, Sylvain Distin, Hermann Hreidarsson and David James. There's not much youth there and obviously they've lost Peter Crouch and Jermain Defoe so there are not many goals coming the other way. Even with new owners there seems little money around to invest in players as the club start talking about cutting the cloth."Star Man: Sylvain DistinIt is tempting to elect Niko Kranjcar, but you cannot help but feel the above defender will have much work to do during a potential season of backs-against-the-wall outings.One to Watch: Matt RitchieThe left winger has talent. He impressed during a loan at Dagenham & Redbridge last season, and will be hoping to push for a role at Pompey this campaign. It has even been claimed that Notts County's director of football Sven Goran Eriksson had Ritchie in his sights earlier this summer.
Fantasy Football pick: Kranjcar (£3.8m)Likely to be key in an attacking-sense for Pompey.
Manager: Paul Hart Hart is a brave man. A tough job awaits him. But the experienced coach did what was required last season, and preserving top-flight status would again suffice.
INS: Aaron Mokoena (free from Blackburn), Steve Finnan (free from Espanyol), Frederic Piquionne (loan from Lyon), Antti Niemi (unattached) free.
OUTS: Djimi Traore (free to Monaco), Sean Davis (free to Bolton), Glen Little (free to Sheffield United), Glen Johnson (£17m to Liverpool), Noe Pamarot, Lauren and Jerome Thomas (all released), Peter Crouch (£9million to Tottenham), Callum Reynolds (loan to Luton).
Best signing: Piquionne Despite a wretched fluff on YouTube, there are murmurs Piquionne could be a winning acquisition. His two goals against Rangers have raised hopes that Hart may have found a diamond in the rough.
Sky Bet Odds: 1500/1
Likely top scorer: John Utaka
Possible best XI James, Finnan, Distin, Kaboul, Hreidarsson, Kranjcar, Diop, Mokoena, Belhadj, Utaka, Piquionne.
Predicted finish: 18th
Uncertainty has made for a miserable summer on the South Coast. With Sulaiman Al Fahim's proposed takeover of Portsmouth still in the balance, the general feeling has spiralled from initial excitement to genuine worry. James Dall considers the implications of the protracted saga ahead of the 2009/10 season, and fears the worst. Way back in May, news of Al Fahim's interest in succeeding current owner Alexandre Gaydamak emerged. I distinctly remember a friend of mine, a Pompey supporter, telephoning me in a giddy manner, high on Arabian fever. It is not unreasonable to react so impulsively - we have all seen what has occurred at Manchester City. Money means signings. Signings please fans.But the process began to drag. Drag horridly. Cue June when I was tasked with writing the club's 'season shape-up'. I made it abundantly clear that the retention of key players (think similar to Portsmouth without Gunwharf Quays) would largely define the fortunes of a side whose squad was already threadbare. A team where the chopping and changing of managers last campaign helped little. A club that only narrowly escaped relegation to the Championship.Almost inevitably, and much to the dismay of Fratton Park followers including my now increasingly sweaty compadre, exits have occurred. England right-back Glen Johnson - Portsmouth's most consistent performer last term, they did not lose a league game with him in the side - joined Liverpool. The only sliver of a silver lining being the seemingly much-needed £17million that changed hands. Then, star striker Peter Crouch, scorer of a third of the club's goals in 2008/09, departed for Tottenham Hotspur for around £9million. Head in hands, indeed.Back to businessman Al Fahim, who passed the Premier League's fit-and-proper persons test in July and was subsequently named Pompey's new chairman. Due diligence had been completed earlier in the month, so all the jigsaw pieces were ready to be, erm, pieced together. The next step is for Al Fahim to strike an agreement over a fee with Gaydamak, but therein lies the sticking point. Still, at least the club now have a permanent manager.Indeed, much conjecture surrounded who might be named as the club's new chief. After Harry Redknapp and Tony Adams left for very different reasons last term, it was up to Paul Hart to oversee a side on the decline and manoeuvre them up the table. That he did admirably, but only on an interim basis. His deal expired at the end of the season. And then, amid the excitement of the takeover, several high-profile names were mooted as his successor.High-profile pair Sven Goran Eriksson and Roberto Mancini were said to be candidates, even Argentina's Diego Maradona was mentioned. But ultimately, as the hysteria petered out, the club turned back to Hart, indicating the reality they find themselves in. It is a difficult task ahead for the experienced coach. He has already conceded Crouch's sale was "necessary", while Portsmouth have even admitted should Al Fahim's takeover bid fall through then further sales could be in the offing. That is the last thing the club need.Djimi Traore, Sean Davis, Glen Little, Noe Pamarot, Lauren and Jerome Thomas have all followed the aforementioned duo in seeking exits. Granted, these players are not world-beaters, but they make up a squad. And, right now, one, with all due respect, would be pushed to label Pompey's current numbers a 'squad'. Hart has been left desperately short, and until sufficient funds are made available to him, he is having to work the market as best he can.South Africa international Aaron Mokoena has arrived from Blackburn Rovers on a free transfer and will add muscle, although they already have similar in Papa Bouba Diop. Steve Finnan has been drafted in for nothing from Espanyol, and will fill the void left by Glen Johnson. However, an injury sustained in pre-season is cause for concern. Completing the trio of arrivals is striker Frederic Piquionne, on loan from Lyon. His YouTube clip of a comical air-shot is fresh in my memory at present.Furthermore, 37-year-old goalkeeper Antti Niemi has come out of retirement to sign for the club. Rest assured, though, that Niemi will provide No.1 shot-stopper David James with competition, not serve as his replacement. Also, Niko Kranjcar says he will remain, the Croat keen to guarantee regular playing time ahead of the 2010 World Cup. Celtic full-back Lee Naylor is a target, while Croatia international Nikola Kalinic also seemed Portsmouth-bound until Blackburn heard of his availability. It also appears David Nugent could leave, with Stoke City and Hull City both alleged admirers.Contract talks with veteran striker Nwankwo Kanu are ongoing but defender Sol Campbell's future seems to lie elsewhere. There are also various players, of them midfielder Modeste M'bami and the fantastically named Eugen Bopp, on trial. Time will tell as to whether Hart deems them up to his standard. With funds all-but unavailable, the coach will have to embark on some serious Redknapp-style wheeling and dealing. Let's talk money matters...As it stands, Al Fahim can offer no funds until he is the proper owner. And in the meanwhile it makes no business sense for Gaydamak to exercise extra outlay on his behalf. This is a Catch-22 situation that will not be resolved until a deal is done. This hurts Portsmouth. They are in theory missing out on deals that could be snapped up. Plus, the next arrivals, if there are to be any at all, will come at a time when the season has already begun. It has even been claimed that they may have to wait until January before investors and backers can assist Al Fahim.This would be a nightmare situation for the fans and Mr Hart. It would be damage limitation until the winter transfer window, and by that time things could be irreparable. The club need clarity. Then they need to be run in a proper manner, the recent high-profile sales indicate previous spending beyond their means. They need only to look at rivals and neighbours Southampton's recent flirtation with liquidation. Right now, Portsmouth need help.FanzoneJames Harrissays: "One word sums up our transfers this summer... depressing! The wealthy Arabian knight in shining armour bounding into Portsmouth on his trusty steed, the Saviour of PFC has turned out to be skinter than a skint person and forget the steed, he is on a donkey! "We are the laughing stock of the football leagues! The ambition of the club for the season has been shown by the appointment of Paul Hart. I am thankful for him keeping us up last year but for some unknown reason we know have more goalkeepers than strikers! "To date we have 16 or so first team players, four of who are keepers! I think I am going to start taking my boots to matches... I may get a start! "I really hope I am wrong and things change; I will support the club no matter who is in charge but would still be nice to win some matches and have something to cheer about! But I fully expect us to struggle this season with the size of our squad and the quality we are left with. It's not going to be a fun year! I hear the odds for us finishing bottom are 14-1 - probably not a bad shout!"
BettingSky Bet'sDale Tempest says: "Portsmouth are 7/4 from 3/1 to go down and Paul Hart will have a real job on his hands to keep his aging squad in the top flight. You look at their back five. They have brought Steve Finnan in to join Sol Campbell, Sylvain Distin, Hermann Hreidarsson and David James. There's not much youth there and obviously they've lost Peter Crouch and Jermain Defoe so there are not many goals coming the other way. Even with new owners there seems little money around to invest in players as the club start talking about cutting the cloth."Star Man: Sylvain DistinIt is tempting to elect Niko Kranjcar, but you cannot help but feel the above defender will have much work to do during a potential season of backs-against-the-wall outings.One to Watch: Matt RitchieThe left winger has talent. He impressed during a loan at Dagenham & Redbridge last season, and will be hoping to push for a role at Pompey this campaign. It has even been claimed that Notts County's director of football Sven Goran Eriksson had Ritchie in his sights earlier this summer.
Fantasy Football pick: Kranjcar (£3.8m)Likely to be key in an attacking-sense for Pompey.
Manager: Paul Hart Hart is a brave man. A tough job awaits him. But the experienced coach did what was required last season, and preserving top-flight status would again suffice.
INS: Aaron Mokoena (free from Blackburn), Steve Finnan (free from Espanyol), Frederic Piquionne (loan from Lyon), Antti Niemi (unattached) free.
OUTS: Djimi Traore (free to Monaco), Sean Davis (free to Bolton), Glen Little (free to Sheffield United), Glen Johnson (£17m to Liverpool), Noe Pamarot, Lauren and Jerome Thomas (all released), Peter Crouch (£9million to Tottenham), Callum Reynolds (loan to Luton).
Best signing: Piquionne Despite a wretched fluff on YouTube, there are murmurs Piquionne could be a winning acquisition. His two goals against Rangers have raised hopes that Hart may have found a diamond in the rough.
Sky Bet Odds: 1500/1
Likely top scorer: John Utaka
Possible best XI James, Finnan, Distin, Kaboul, Hreidarsson, Kranjcar, Diop, Mokoena, Belhadj, Utaka, Piquionne.
Predicted finish: 18th
Hart: We need you..
Paul Hart issued a rousing rallying cry ahead of the new Premier League campaign and vowed: This club is worth fighting for.Hart spoke of his pride at leading Pompey into what is going to be a tough campaign as the countdown to Saturday's opener with Fulham gathers pace.The 56-year-old is under no illusions as to how difficult it is going to be for the Blues, with off-the-field uncertainty hindering his plans to ready his troops for the season.But he has delivered a call to arms and challenged everyone connected with the club to unite for the battle ahead.Pompey followers have traditionally pulled together and been at their best in the most testing times in their side's history.In an impassioned address to supporters, Hart told fans their backing is more crucial than ever if the Blues are to pull through a testing nine months. Hart said: 'It's going to be a fight all the way this season.'I've always tried to tell them the truth – as I've been trying to tell everyone for the last two months.'Nobody seems to believe me, but we've got no money.'That is the situation how it stands at the moment I'm afraid.'We all want to be successful for this football club and, yes, we know we need players to come in.'We're not dodging that and will endeavour to do so in difficult circumstances.'But what we do need is people to understand our situation. 'They don't have to like that, but they do have to understand the situation.'We need everyone to get behind the players and the club at this time and show what great support we know we have.'I think once people understand where we are in terms of our position we can regroup.'The club, the players, the staff and the fans will all know we have to battle to get through this.'We need everyone on the same wavelength and it's not going be easy, but if we fight we can pull through what we face.'I've known all along that the days of spending £20m here are now a thing of the past.'I accepted the role on that basis. I knew it was going to be difficult, although perhaps not quite as difficult as this. 'But I came in with my eyes open and I know this is a great club – that's why I'm proud to be here.'I want everyone to know I'm proud of being manager, just as our supporters are proud of their club. It's worth fighting for.'Hart insisted he has faith in the players at his disposal to maintain Pompey's place in the Premier League.He feels they have shown him they possess the stomach for the fight which begins at Fratton Park this weekend.Hart said: 'The players have been tremendous to a man. 'They have knuckled down in what is a very difficult situation.'They have trained really hard and got on with it. A manager could not have asked for anything more to be honest. They've been brilliant.'It's a case of them knowing the situation and getting on with it. They are good professionals and have shown that to me.'There has to be an element of trust between the manager and the players – and I've tried to maintain that.'
Kranjcar off next summer
Niko Kranjcar has no intention of signing a new contract at Portsmouth and will leave the club next summer. The Croatia international joined Pompey from Hajduk Split in 2006 and has become a firm fans' favourite at Fratton Park.Blessed with outstanding natural ability, the 24-year-old has quickly become one of the Premier League's top talents.The speed in which has was initially able to adapt to the English game has made him a target for some of Europe's top clubs in the past, with a big-money move often touted.He has remained loyal to Portsmouth throughout the speculation, but has now made it clear that his time on the South Coast is coming to a close.With financial troubles currently hindering Pompey's plans for the future, Kranjcar feels he needs to move on in order to fulfil his own lofty ambitions."For now I am staying, but we have not strengthened like I would have liked us to," he said."That's why I will not sign a new contract. It's one more season for me and then I'm off."RevelationThe news will come as a major blow to Portsmouth boss Paul Hart, as he has already been forced to part with a number of his top stars.The Fratton Park chief is, however, tipping summer signing Frederic Piquionne for big things, and the Frenchman could yet help to soften the blow of Kranjcar's inevitable departure."He's a good, honest lad who runs hard and heads it well," said Hart."He is going to be a problem for Premier League defenders. He's played up front on his own before so he's aware of what's needed and he caused Rangers problems (in a recent friendly)."The lad puts defenders under pressure, he has that movement down the channels and as a manager you want the ability to run in behind."His enthusiasm and willingness to run behind the defence has been a revelation for us."I'm sure he can adapt but you have got to be prepared and let him settle in and find his feet. I hope he will have an impact on the Premier League."That's what he wants and he's had a couple of quiet seasons, now he's trying to prove people wrong."
Portsmouth Look To Sign Genoa's Anthony Vanden Borre On Loan - Report
The 23-year-old could be plying his trade on England's south coast next season...
11 Aug 2009
Last week Anthony Vanden Borre had looked set to sign for Spanish outfit Real Zaragoza, but Portsmouth have now reportedly entered negotiations to sign the Genoa man on loan for next season.According to Tuttomercatoweb.com, cash-strapped Portsmouth are close to sealing a loan deal for the Belgian, an arrangement that would give Pompey an option to make the deal permanent at the end of the season.With a busy summer of signings at the Marassi, it is likely that Vanden Borre will be on his way out of the club.Despite showing much promise at Anderlecht, Vanden Borre has failed to impose himself upon the tactical Italian league either at Fiorentina, where he spent a short spell in 2007, or at the Grifoni.A change of scenery would be a benefit to Vanden Borre's career, and with Portsmouth's wafer thin squad, the utility player would be assured of playing either in midfield or defence.
11 Aug 2009
Last week Anthony Vanden Borre had looked set to sign for Spanish outfit Real Zaragoza, but Portsmouth have now reportedly entered negotiations to sign the Genoa man on loan for next season.According to Tuttomercatoweb.com, cash-strapped Portsmouth are close to sealing a loan deal for the Belgian, an arrangement that would give Pompey an option to make the deal permanent at the end of the season.With a busy summer of signings at the Marassi, it is likely that Vanden Borre will be on his way out of the club.Despite showing much promise at Anderlecht, Vanden Borre has failed to impose himself upon the tactical Italian league either at Fiorentina, where he spent a short spell in 2007, or at the Grifoni.A change of scenery would be a benefit to Vanden Borre's career, and with Portsmouth's wafer thin squad, the utility player would be assured of playing either in midfield or defence.
Mensah off to Pompey?
Ghanaian defender John Mensah could follow striker Frederic Piquionne away from Lyon to English side Portsmouth.Mensah, who has played primarily as a centre-back for Lyon but has also been used at right-back, only moved to the Stade Gerland one year ago, signing with from Stade Rennais. While considered a strong, powerful component of the Bretons’ back-four, his time with Lyon was dogged by injury problems as well as inconsistent form on the park. Lyon have already indicated that they are willing to allow the 26-year-old to find himself a new club, concerned that his growth as a player is being stunted sitting on their bench. In addition, Lyon probably feel that he is wasting valuable space on the wage bill, as Mathieu Bodmer has emerged as the club’s third-choice centre-back behind Cris and Jean-Alain Boumsong. Portsmouth are proposing a move for Mensah similar to the one that took Piquionne to Fratton Park. Ideally, the club would like to purchase the former Genoa defender on a loan basis to begin with, although it is also reported that an option to buy the player could be included in the deal. Having initially bought Mensah for €7-million, it is considered that this would be the buy-out fee. The Premier League club will have been pleased with the contribution of Piquionne to date. The former Monaco and Saint-Etienne striker scored twice as he helped Pompey to a 2-0 friendly win over Rangers, scoring once in each half.
Zenden confirms talks with Prem trio
Former Chelsea winger Bolo Zenden has confirmed he is talks with Hull, Blackburn and Portsmouth over a possible return to the Premier League.
Zenden, who also played for Liverpool and Middlesbrough, is hoping to win a move back to England after leaving Marseille earlier this summer.
The 32-year-old is available on a free transfer and the 32-year-old Zenden hopes to seal a switch before the start of the Premier League this weekend.
"It is true that I am talks with a few Premier League clubs and I hope to finalise a move before the 15th of August for the start of the Premier League," Zenden told Sky Sports' website.
"Hull, Blackburn and Portsmouth have expressed an interest and I am talks with those clubs, but I have not decided anything yet.
"I am free agent after I turned down the offer of a new two-year contract at Marseille.
"There are other teams interested in me, but my main perference is to move to England.
"I obviously had six years there and I feel I am suited to playing there and I have the experience of having played there before.
"The Premier League is the best around, with the best players and I really enjoy the atmospheres inside the stadiums.
"I am in Holland at the minute, but once a deal is agreed with a club I am ready to get on the first flight to England."
Zenden, who also played for Liverpool and Middlesbrough, is hoping to win a move back to England after leaving Marseille earlier this summer.
The 32-year-old is available on a free transfer and the 32-year-old Zenden hopes to seal a switch before the start of the Premier League this weekend.
"It is true that I am talks with a few Premier League clubs and I hope to finalise a move before the 15th of August for the start of the Premier League," Zenden told Sky Sports' website.
"Hull, Blackburn and Portsmouth have expressed an interest and I am talks with those clubs, but I have not decided anything yet.
"I am free agent after I turned down the offer of a new two-year contract at Marseille.
"There are other teams interested in me, but my main perference is to move to England.
"I obviously had six years there and I feel I am suited to playing there and I have the experience of having played there before.
"The Premier League is the best around, with the best players and I really enjoy the atmospheres inside the stadiums.
"I am in Holland at the minute, but once a deal is agreed with a club I am ready to get on the first flight to England."
Monday, 10 August 2009
Storrie tells fans to keep up their belief in a rosy future for Pompey
Pompey chief executive Peter Storrie today again moved to reassure fans after reports of new problems that could scupper the takeover of the club.Mr Storrie dismissed reports that frustrated current owner Sacha Gaydamak had given prospective buyer Sulaiman Al Fahim a seven day deadline to complete the takeover.The reports also claimed that Al Fahim did not have the money to complete the deal.As the takeover drama moved into a crucial week, Mr Storrie said the reports, in a national newspaper over the weekend, were 'rubbish'.And he was bullish about the deal going ahead, telling supporters: 'Just wait and see.'Mr Storrie said: 'It's an absolute load of rubbish. Why do the national papers continue to go on about this?'I am sick and tired of their accusations having at go at the club all the time.'The national press has it in for Portsmouth Football Club.'It's like some sort of campaign against us, it's ridiculous.'They will not leave us alone and it's affecting things.'We are trying to sort things out and they keep coming up with this rubbish.'Why do these people keep having a go at us?'He then added: 'All I can say to supporters is just wait and see, just wait and see.' Mr Storrie's broadside came after the Sunday Mirror claimed a frustrated Alexandre Gaydamak - more commonly known as Sacha - had imposed the seven-day deadline after lots of delays.The paper reported a source close to the takeover saying: 'Alexandre has shown incredible incredible patience to see this through because there appears to be no alternative. But it has reached farcical proportions.'It seems Fahim does not have the money to close the deal and is seeking alternative ways to finance the buyout.' Dubai property tycoon Al Fahim has completed due diligence – the evaluation of the club – and has passed the Premier League's fit and proper person test.But more than two months since beginning the takeover process it is believed the deal has stalled while Gaydamak and Al Fahim thrash out negotiations about the club's £27m debts.Al Fahim's spokesman Ivo Ilic Gabara played down talks of any rift between the two men.In a statement yesterday he said: 'The transaction is now in its final stages and the final talks are proceeding on a cordial basis.'All parties involved are exercising every effort to complete the sale as soon as possible in the best interest of the club and its supporters who are showing an extraordinary level of loyalty to this great club.'
Pompey are in pole position to land West Brom midfielder Jonathan Greening.
As Reported yesterday Pompey are in pole position to land West Brom midfielder Jonathan Greening in a swap deal involving David Nugent.The 30-year-old former Manchester United and Middlesbrough man is looking to get back into the Premier League after the Baggies were relegated last season.Fulham are keen on signing him, but Nugent appears to be Pompey's trump card.Pompey are keen to offload Nugent after the latest in a series of unsavoury incidents involved ther former Preston striker. He was involved in a druken brawl with team-mate Marc Wilson last weekend in Portugal.Albion are keen to reinforce their attacking options as they seek to bounce back to the top flight at the first attempt and a swap deal is looking a solution which would suit all parties.Pompey are keen to add some guile and craft down the right hand side of their midfield and the cultured Greening fits the bill perfectly.He has made nearly 200 appearances for the Baggies and was in their side who played Pompey in the FA Cups emi final in April 2008.
Kranjcar off next summer
Niko Kranjcar has no intention of signing a new contract at Portsmouth and will leave the club next summer. The Croatia international joined Pompey from Hajduk Split in 2006 and has become a firm fans' favourite at Fratton Park.Blessed with outstanding natural ability, the 24-year-old has quickly become one of the Premier League's top talents.The speed in which has was initially able to adapt to the English game has made him a target for some of Europe's top clubs in the past, with a big-money move often touted.He has remained loyal to Portsmouth throughout the speculation, but has now made it clear that his time on the South Coast is coming to a close.With financial troubles currently hindering Pompey's plans for the future, Kranjcar feels he needs to move on in order to fulfil his own lofty ambitions."For now I am staying, but we have not strengthened like I would have liked us to," he said."That's why I will not sign a new contract. It's one more season for me and then I'm off."RevelationThe news will come as a major blow to Portsmouth boss Paul Hart, as he has already been forced to part with a number of his top stars.The Fratton Park chief is, however, tipping summer signing Frederic Piquionne for big things, and the Frenchman could yet help to soften the blow of Kranjcar's inevitable departure."He's a good, honest lad who runs hard and heads it well," said Hart."He is going to be a problem for Premier League defenders. He's played up front on his own before so he's aware of what's needed and he caused Rangers problems (in a recent friendly)."The lad puts defenders under pressure, he has that movement down the channels and as a manager you want the ability to run in behind."His enthusiasm and willingness to run behind the defence has been a revelation for us."I'm sure he can adapt but you have got to be prepared and let him settle in and find his feet. I hope he will have an impact on the Premier League."That's what he wants and he's had a couple of quiet seasons, now he's trying to prove people wrong."
Karembeu Leaves Portsmouth For Arsenal Role
World Cup winning former France International Christian Karembeu has left his role at Portsmouth to join Arsenal’s ever expanding scouting network.The 38-year-old who also won the European Championships and Confederations Cup in a 10 year international career played for FC Nantes, Sampdoria, Real Madrid, Olympiakos, Servette and Bastia is controversial career. Sandwiched between that, Christian spent a single season with Middlesbrough where he played 33 times, scoring 4 goals.Noted for his dreadlocks and combative playing style, Karembeu was awarded with the prestigious Légion d’honneur in 1998 – an award similar to an OBE in England. His career continued to grow after retiring from the game in 2005 despite being accused of beating his super-model wife Adriana Sklenaříková – something both parties denied. He has worked for both FIFA and UEFA and previously took part in draws for the Champions League and World Cup.However, a move to Portsmouth in a scouting capacity followed where he focused mainly on young players in France. Although being named the FIFA Ambassador for Oceania, he continued his work with Pompey until Arsenal offered him the chance to combine the two roles by scouting such Oceania countries as Australia and New Zealand.Karembeu will take up his role immediately.
Sunday, 9 August 2009
Bruce in Distin hint
Sunderland boss Steve Bruce has admitted his interest in Portsmouth defender Sylvain Distin.
The Black Cats have been strongly linked with a move for the former Newcastle and Manchester City man as they look to bolster their defensive options ahead of the new season.
Aston Villa and Liverpool have also been credited with an interest in Distin, who has just one year to run on his current deal at Fratton Park.
Bruce has hinted he is ready to make a move for Distin by revealing his admiration for the Frenchman.
"I think it would be wrong of me to comment on other people's players," Bruce told the Sunday Sun.
"He's a player we like and admire but that's as far as it has gone.
"We haven't got much in the way of transfer deals in the pipeline at the moment but we are still working extremely hard to improve the squad."
The Black Cats have been strongly linked with a move for the former Newcastle and Manchester City man as they look to bolster their defensive options ahead of the new season.
Aston Villa and Liverpool have also been credited with an interest in Distin, who has just one year to run on his current deal at Fratton Park.
Bruce has hinted he is ready to make a move for Distin by revealing his admiration for the Frenchman.
"I think it would be wrong of me to comment on other people's players," Bruce told the Sunday Sun.
"He's a player we like and admire but that's as far as it has gone.
"We haven't got much in the way of transfer deals in the pipeline at the moment but we are still working extremely hard to improve the squad."
Hull City Target Portsmouth Striker David Nugent – Report
The Pompey bad-boy could be set to become the latest man to arrive at the KC Stadium... Gill Clark
9 Aug 2009 10:09:00
Hull City are reportedly interested in signing Portsmouth’s out-of-favour striker David Nugent, according to the News of the World.The 24-year-old looks set to leave Fratton Park this summer, after having been sent home early from the club’s pre-season tour for brawling with team-mate Marc Wilson.The striker has already been linked with a move to several other Premier League clubs, with both Wolverhampton Wanderers and Stoke City reportedly interested, and Hull now appear to have joined the race for his signature.The striker is expected to cost around £4 million and chief executive Peter Storrie admitted there had been interest in Nugent.“We have players we want to sell and no one has to be a brain surgeon to work out who they are,” he said.“We've had enquiries for David.”Phil Brown’s Tigers have endured a frustrating summer so far in the transfer market, after losing out on players such as Fraizer Campbell and Habib Beye.However, they have had more joy recently with Seyi Olofinjana arriving from Stoke and Jozy Altidore joining on loan.
Gill Clark, Goal.com
9 Aug 2009 10:09:00
Hull City are reportedly interested in signing Portsmouth’s out-of-favour striker David Nugent, according to the News of the World.The 24-year-old looks set to leave Fratton Park this summer, after having been sent home early from the club’s pre-season tour for brawling with team-mate Marc Wilson.The striker has already been linked with a move to several other Premier League clubs, with both Wolverhampton Wanderers and Stoke City reportedly interested, and Hull now appear to have joined the race for his signature.The striker is expected to cost around £4 million and chief executive Peter Storrie admitted there had been interest in Nugent.“We have players we want to sell and no one has to be a brain surgeon to work out who they are,” he said.“We've had enquiries for David.”Phil Brown’s Tigers have endured a frustrating summer so far in the transfer market, after losing out on players such as Fraizer Campbell and Habib Beye.However, they have had more joy recently with Seyi Olofinjana arriving from Stoke and Jozy Altidore joining on loan.
Gill Clark, Goal.com
Pompey takeover still on course. Sky Sports
Al Fahim remains committed to Portsmouth takeover.Sky Sports
Portsmouth chairman Sulaiman Al Fahim has rejected reports that his proposed takeover of the club was on the verge of collapsing.
Reports emanating on Saturday suggested that the deal to see Al Fahim gain control of Portsmouth from Sacha Gaydamak was poised to fall through.
It was suggested Gaydamak was growing frustrated at the progress of talks and that there were fears over funds being made available by Al Fahim to contend with the club's debts.
However, Al Fahim has moved quickly to dismiss the rumours and insists he remains fully committed to taking charge at Fratton Park.
Al Fahim's spokesman told Sky Sports News: "In response to recent unsubstantiated media coverage, the Chairman of the Board of Portsmouth FC, Sulaiman Al Fahim, and Mr. Sacha Gaydamak, Member of the Board of Portsmouth FC, would like to re-affirm that they both remain committed to completing the agreed transaction intended to change the ownership of Portsmouth FC as soon as possible, as provided by the Terms Sheet signed in July.
"With regard to the timing of the transaction, Sulaiman Al Fahim and Sacha Gaydamak stress that following the timely completion of the due diligence process, the approval issued by the Premier League under its 'Fit and Proper Person' test and the signing of the Terms Sheet, the transaction is now in its final stages and the final talks are proceeding on a cordial basis.
"All parties involved are exercising every effort to complete the sale as soon as possible in the best interest of the club and its supporters who are showing an extraordinary level of loyalty to this great club."
Portsmouth chairman Sulaiman Al Fahim has rejected reports that his proposed takeover of the club was on the verge of collapsing.
Reports emanating on Saturday suggested that the deal to see Al Fahim gain control of Portsmouth from Sacha Gaydamak was poised to fall through.
It was suggested Gaydamak was growing frustrated at the progress of talks and that there were fears over funds being made available by Al Fahim to contend with the club's debts.
However, Al Fahim has moved quickly to dismiss the rumours and insists he remains fully committed to taking charge at Fratton Park.
Al Fahim's spokesman told Sky Sports News: "In response to recent unsubstantiated media coverage, the Chairman of the Board of Portsmouth FC, Sulaiman Al Fahim, and Mr. Sacha Gaydamak, Member of the Board of Portsmouth FC, would like to re-affirm that they both remain committed to completing the agreed transaction intended to change the ownership of Portsmouth FC as soon as possible, as provided by the Terms Sheet signed in July.
"With regard to the timing of the transaction, Sulaiman Al Fahim and Sacha Gaydamak stress that following the timely completion of the due diligence process, the approval issued by the Premier League under its 'Fit and Proper Person' test and the signing of the Terms Sheet, the transaction is now in its final stages and the final talks are proceeding on a cordial basis.
"All parties involved are exercising every effort to complete the sale as soon as possible in the best interest of the club and its supporters who are showing an extraordinary level of loyalty to this great club."
Nugent Swap For Greening?
Reports this morning seem to be that Pompey are ready to swap bad boy Nugent for West Brom Captain Greening, Nugent just hasnt cut it in the higher leagues, Greening could add a bit of steel to the Pompey midfield.
Fed-up Gaydamak gives Al Fahim week to close Portsmouth deal
Sacha Gaydamak has given Sulaiman Al Fahim a week to complete his takeover of Portsmouth.
The Sunday Mirror says Gaydamak has become so exasperated by negotiations with Fahim that he has set a seven-day deadline for the deal to be completed. Gaydamak has told friends he would have walked away from the Fahim deal weeks ago if he had an alternative.
A heated exchange of words took place between Gaydamak and Fahim last Thursday. Gaydamak questioned Fahim's motives for buying the club.
A source close to the takeover said: "Alexandre has shown incredible patience to see this through because there appears to be no alternative. But it's reached farcical proportions.
"It seems Fahim does not have the money to close the deal and is seeking alternative ways to finance the buy-out. He has repeatedly promised to come up with the money."
A spokesman for Fahim said: "The deal is very much on track and we are looking to complete as soon as possible.
"Sulaiman Al Fahim has a long term vision for the club and looks forward to the next stage of the process. Once the ownership has been transferred he will be in a position to support Portsmouth on its way to financial solidity and success."
The Sunday Mirror says Gaydamak has become so exasperated by negotiations with Fahim that he has set a seven-day deadline for the deal to be completed. Gaydamak has told friends he would have walked away from the Fahim deal weeks ago if he had an alternative.
A heated exchange of words took place between Gaydamak and Fahim last Thursday. Gaydamak questioned Fahim's motives for buying the club.
A source close to the takeover said: "Alexandre has shown incredible patience to see this through because there appears to be no alternative. But it's reached farcical proportions.
"It seems Fahim does not have the money to close the deal and is seeking alternative ways to finance the buy-out. He has repeatedly promised to come up with the money."
A spokesman for Fahim said: "The deal is very much on track and we are looking to complete as soon as possible.
"Sulaiman Al Fahim has a long term vision for the club and looks forward to the next stage of the process. Once the ownership has been transferred he will be in a position to support Portsmouth on its way to financial solidity and success."
Saturday, 8 August 2009
Updates: FT - Portsmouth 2 Rangers 0
Portsmouth 2 Rangers 0
Attendance: 9,018
Star Man - Frederic Piquionne Scores two on his debut, Full of pace, strong and a handful.
No sign of Al Fahim or Gaydamak.
83min - Portsmouth Substitution - Bopp replaces Kranjcar.
81min - Portsmouth Substitution - Ward, Ritchie and Mahoto replace and Mokoena, Belhadj and Distin for Pompey.
81min - Rangers substitution - Jamie Ness on for Lee McCulloch.
75min - Double substitution for Rangers - Danny Wilson and Andrew Shinnie on for David Weir and Andrew Little.
72min - Davis touches the ball away from Cranie at the back post but his effort across goal is well blocked by the legs of Ashdown.
71min - Fleck unleashes a superb shot from 30 yards which is only inches wide of goal with Ashdown beaten. Great effort from the youngster.
68min - Portsmouth substitution - Martin Cranie on for for Papa Bouba Diop.
65min - A scorching shot from Kaboul brings out a terrific stop from Allan McGregor.
63min - Portsmouth substitution - Angelos Basinas on for Frederic Piquionne
59min - Thompson and Velicka replace Boyd and Lafferty.
57min - Ashdown replaces James
51min - GOAL! Portsmouth 2 Rangers 0 - Piquionne scores his second goal of the game. The striker beat David Weir for pace and before rounding Allan McGregor and rolling the ball in to the net.
48min - John Utaka produces an excellent run down the right and his chipped cross is acrobatically cleared by Little with Piquionne ready to pounce.
46min - Portmouth get the second-half underway. Three changes for Rangers with Aaron, Steven Davis and Steven Smith on for DaMarcus Beasley, Pedro Mendes and Sasa Papac.
HT: Portmouth 1 Rangers 0 - Frederic Piquionne's header on 31 minutes has given Portsmouth a half-time lead here at Fratton Park. Rangers have not hit top form yet in this game but changes can be expected at the start of the second period.
44min - Kranjcar wins a corner in the final minute of the first-half. The big Croatian takes but Rangers deal with the danger.
42min - John Fleck shows his potential with a powerful run from midfield and his low curling shot from 25 yards is only a couple of feet wide of David James' goal.
40min - Kris Boyd has put in a good shift so far in this game but he could be doing with a bit more help from Beasley and Lafferty at this stage.
33min - Rangers are in need of a bit of creativity right now. The Light Blues are enjoying a lot of possession are struggling to find a decisive pass in the last third.
31min - GOAL! Portsmouth 1 Rangers 0 - Pompey right-back Younes Kaboul floats a beautiful cross in to the box and Frederic Piquionne heads the ball past Allan McGregor from eight yards.
20min - The game is tight at this moment with both teams having chances. So far none have been taken but Walter Smith will be satisfied with the start Rangers have made.
13min - Kranjcar does well to take the ball past Beasley and Little but his cross with the outside of his right boot is easily gathered by Allan McGregor.
11min - Bougherra does brilliantly to release Beasley but the American's cut back from the right fails to find Boyd and the ball is cleared.
8min - Sasa Papac pushes forward with intent and his 25 yard shot again tests James. Positive start from the visitors.
4min - Little darts in to the 18 yard box from the right wing and David James has to be lively to dart from his line and make a fine stop. Confident play from the Northern Ireland kid.
3min - The 3,000 Rangers fans currently doing the 'bouncy' in the away end of the ground, they are clearly enjoying this occasion and the glorious sunshine.
2min - Niko Kranjcar immediately shows his silky skills on the left wing. He could be the danger man for Pompey today and will provide a big test for youngster Andrew Little.
0min - Kris Boyd and DaMarcus Beasley get today's friendly under way. Rangers wearing the club's new red shirt.
RANGERS (4-3-3): McGregor; Little, Bougherra, Weir, Papac; Fleck, McCulloch, Mendes; Beasley, Boyd, Lafferty
Subs: Adam, Thomson, Davis, Smith, Velicka, Aaron, Shinnie, Wilson, Loy, Ness
PORTSMOUTH (4-5-1): James; Kaboul, Wilson, Distin, Belhadj; Utaka, Mullins, Mokoena, Diop, Kranjcar; Piquionne
Subs: Ashdown, Craine, Basinas, Ritchie, Bopp, Ward, Mahoto
Reports: Al Fahim takeover on the brink of collapse...
Reports are tonight emerging that Sulaiman Al Fahim's Pompey's takeover is on the brink of collapse.The News understands there are set to be more revelations concerning Al Fahim's bid to buy the Blues emerging tomorrow.It is understood there are difficulties between the Arab property tycoon and Sacha Gaydamak.The proposed buyout certainly appears to be on shaky ground, although whether the difficulties between the pair amount to a collapse in the deal is open to interpretation.Chief executive Peter Storrie chose not to comment on the subject, admitting it was between Gaydamak and Al Fahim.A breakdown in the Al Fahim buyout would undoubtedly leave Pompey on the brink of meltdown days away from the start of the new campaign.
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