Portsmouth part with Perrin
Thursday, November 24, 2005
Article summary
English Premiership side Portsmouth FC have dismissed manager Alain Perrin after just seven months in charge following their poor start to the season.
Article body
Premiership survival
The 49-year-old Frenchman, who took over at Fratton Park in April, kept the club in the Premiership last term but Portsmouth have struggled to find the same form this campaign, sitting 17th in the league - one place above the relegation zone - after winning only twice in their opening 13 games.
Tough decision
"This has not been an easy conclusion to reach," said chairman Milan Mandaric, who has put first-team coach Joe Jordan in temporary command. "Alain is a talented coach and a good, honest man. However, the view taken is that recent performances and the general morale among the squad needed improvement."
Loyal support
It was thought Perrin would be given extra time after the Portsmouth players gave him their backing in a crisis meeting with Mandaric earlier this week. But after discussions with the board, the chairman decided to part with the former Olympique de Marseille trainer.
New era
"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. This is not an easy time but I ask everyone connected with the club - especially the fans - to stick togetherand give their usual loyal support to help turn things around.
Temporary post
"A successor to Alain will be announced as quickly as possible and I would like to thank Joe Jordan for taking charge as caretaker manager," added Mandaric. "The demands of Premier League football are intense but I am confident we will find the right man for the job to help Pompey get the season back on track."