Avram Grant is convinced Portsmouth still have what it takes to
survive in the Premier League, despite a resounding 4-1 home defeat
to Arsenal.
Pompey issued a statement on Wednesday denying the club had
been formally served with a winding up petition by Her Majesty's
Revenue and Customs in relation to disputed VAT, PAYE and National
Insurance contributions of a reported £3.5million.
While that matter may yet be resolved in a High Court hearing
early next month to avoid administration,
Pompey continue to operate under a transfer embargo imposed
by the Premier League and face an uphill battle to save themselves
from relegation. Sections of the Fratton Park faithful chanted
"Where's all our money gone?" and vented their anger towards owner
Ali Al Faraj as chants of "Sack the board" and "You're not fit to
run a club" rang out around the ground.
The substitution of captain Aaron Mokoena was also cheered
but former Chelsea boss Grant insists all is not lost.
"When we get onto the pitch the players are trying to do
their best. I know the board are trying their best," he said. "I
hope to have some funds [in January].
"Even if it's a difficult situation, the team can stay in the
league.
"One month ago we were seven points off safety, now we are
four, but we need to do something.
"I feel the supporters are behind us and they are good for
the team.
"The fans were here before any player, manager or owner, and
they will stay after, so we need to do our best for the fans.
"I know there are problems off the pitch, but I cannot say
anything about this.
"I have sympathy for the fans. We are trying to do our best
for them. The situation is not easy."
Portsmouth are set to lose several players to the African
Nations Cup, including goalscorer Nadir Belhadj, while there are
reports the club could be forced to sell key men like England
goalkeeper David James to stay afloat.
However, Grant said: "All the players in the team need to
stay and I think the board know that.
"From the football side we need the players to stay and we
need to make the team stronger.
"I know what the team needs to stay in the league and I'm
sure we can do that."
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger had sympathy for Portsmouth's
plight on a day when it was announced Roman Abramovich has all but
wiped out Chelsea's £340million debt by turning an
interest-free loan into shares.
Wenger said: "Professional football is about winning and
balancing the budget.
"That is the basic rule and one which I fought for. All the
rest is half cheating.
"I don't speak about what has happened here, but that is what
I am for.
"For every club it has to be the same, for Chelsea, for
everybody. I always pleaded for financial fair play."
