FM14: Portsmouth F.C. - We've Slipped Down A League Two Many!

[Ty]

Welcome to the thread of...

If you ever wanted a challenge on Football Manager...

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Brief History

Portsmouth Football Club was founded in 1898, the land in Goldsmith Avenue that became Fratton Park, the only home that the club has had, cost £4,950. The company formation costing £8,000 in £1 shares, guided by Brickwoods brewery boss John Brickwood. Pompey became Portsmouth Football Club Ltd in 1912. Prior to 1898 a local solicitor Arthur Cogswell had started an amateur team including one player, A.C.Smith goalkeeper, who was actually Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Now universally known as Pompey the teams original nickname was the Shrimps due to their salmon pink kit.

The club's first manager was Frank Bretell and under his management the club had a successful opening season winning 20 of their 28 league games in the Southern Division, finishing runners up to Tottenham. The club had an excellent FA cup run in the 1928/29 season, only to lose 2-0 to Bolton in the final. Portsmouth won the FA cup in 1939, beating Wolves 4-1 in the final. This win producing the FA cup trivia question, which club has held the FA cup for the longest period? Due to the outbreak of WW2 Pompey didn't return the cup until the competition resumed after the war in 1945. Pompey won the League 1 (Top Division in England at the time) Championship 2 seasons in succession in 1948/49 and 1949/50 with goals from players such as Peter Harris and Ike Clarke. Aside from this successful early period Portsmouth have had a less successful time in the modern era. They earned promotion back to the 1st division under the management of Alan Ball, but only remained for 1 season 1987/88 before being relegated.

Under the control of Chairman Milan Mandaric who bought the club in 1998 and manager Harry Redknapp Pompey won the 1st division championship in the 2002/03 season, promoting them to the Barclays Premiership for the first time. After keeping the team in the Premiership for the first season Redknapp left the club under acrimonious circumstances mid way through the 2004/05 season, to the outrage of Pompey fans, joining arch rivals Southampton. The irony of this being when Pompey beat Redknapp's Southampton team 4-1 at Fratton Park toward the end of the 2004/05 season, Southampton eventually being relegated. Harry Redknapp surprisingly returned as Pompey manager in December 2005, after the departure of French manager Alain Perrin, Redknapp started to rebuild the squad and Pompey managed to narrowly avoid relegation, which had seemed inevitable most of the season.

FA Cup - The Only Recent Glory

After an absence of nearly 60 years Portsmouth fans enjoyed their long-awaited day at Wembley in the FA Cup final, celebrating in style as the team ran out 1-0 winners against Cardiff City to claim the coveted trophy and return it to the South coast. After an eventful run to the final, defeating Manchester United away from home along the way, Portsmouth walked out onto the hallowed turf as favourites and duly dominated large portions of the game, taking the lead mid way through the first half before going on the attack to pressure the Cardiff back line. It was a deserved victory, and was the first time since 1995 that a club outside of England s Big Four has lifted the trophy. Many heroes graced the pitch that day as David James once again proved his class through an assured display; Glenn Johnson, whose tireless work down the right flank, was rewarded when he crossed for the goal; and Kanu who completed the fairytale with the winning strike. After years of trying Harry Redknapp finally realised the dream and led his team to his first major domestic trophy as manager. But the day truly belonged to the fans and the lasting memory will be the Pompey chimes bellowing out from the first whistle to the last.

Personally, my highlight of the 2008 Cup win was in the quarter finals against United. A game which we certain to lose according to all the press and media.

Man United had loads of chances and it was either pure luck or sheer determination we got away with a 1-0 win. The main part of the match that sticks in my head is the Glen Johnson header off the line, right place right time!

Portsmouth FC's road to the 2010 FA Cup Final was "paved with anything but gold", as one commentator described it, but to the supporters, it meant everything.

It meant everything because, for an entire season, the world just seemed to crumble around Fratton Park. New owners took over the club and promised luxuries they never delivered, therefore dumping the club further into debt (which at one point exceeded over 70 million pounds), players had to be sold during the transfer window to raise funds which would be used to keep the club alive, which decimated the club to the bare bones. And, to top it all off, the club entered administration in March 2010, and was officially relegated to the Championship the following month, after a nine-point deduction was placed over the club's head for entering the administrative phase.

It all came together to create a horror year. But that didn't stop the players, the fans, or manager Avram Grant. They joined forces to revolt against all the bad stuff and bring some much needed joy to a gloomy season. A team with no money, not many fit players and an administrator running the place were now staring down the barrel of official Premier League relegation, but also a dream FA Cup final date. The match would be played against either Tottenham or Fulham. Spurs came out the eventual winners of the replay, and that meant that Pompey were on an FA Cup collision course with Harry Redknapp, the man who took Portsmouth all the way to Cup glory in 2008.

So, there they stood, proudly donning new Kappa jerseys, in front of 35,000 Portsmouth supporters in London at the national stadium, representing a club that had been through so much this season, yet had never given up. Heart, pride, passion and determination got the better of Redknapp's Tottenham outfit on the day, as Frederic Piquionne and Kevin Prince-Boateng sealed an incredible win for Portsmouth. Although Portsmouth lost in the final, 1-0 to Chelsea. The win over Spurs in the Semi-finals will be something I will always remember!

Portsmouth's Dubious Owners, Money Problems and Administration Timeline

- January 2006

Portsmouth was bought by businessman Alexandre Gaydamak whose funding allowed for the club to buy practically a whole new squad mid-season. With large amounts of money available for the manager to make record signings, the club finished the 2006–07 season in the top half of the table for the first time, only one point short of European qualification.

Alexandre Gaydamak

- May 2009

Portsmouth accepted a bid from United Arab Emirates businessman Sulaiman Al Fahim to buy the club.

- July 2009

Al Fahim was appointed Non-executive Chairman of Portsmouth.

Sulaiman Al-Fahim

- August 2009

Portsmouth announced on their website that a rival consortium headed by current CEO Peter Storrie had also made a bid for the club; unknown at the time, this was backed by Ali Al-Faraj. Despite this, Al Fahim completed the takeover on 26th August; Al Faraj moved to review a takeover of West Ham United

Peter Storrie & Ali Al-Faraj

- October 2009

The finances dried up and the club admitted on 1st October that some of their players and staff had not been paid. On 3rd October, media outlets started to report that a deal was nearing completion for Ali Al-Faraj to take control of the club. On 5th October, a deal was agreed for Al-Faraj and his associates via BVI-registered company Falcondrone to hold a 90% majority holding, with Al-Fahim retaining 10% stake and the title of non-executive Chairman for two years. Falcondrone also agreed a deal with Gaydamak the right to buy, for £1, Miland Development (2004) Ltd, which owns various strategic pockets of land around the ground, once refinancing is complete.

- December 2009

It was announced that the club had failed to pay the players for the second consecutive month, on the 31st it was announced player's wages would again be paid late on 5th January 2010. According to common football contracts, the players then had the right to terminate their contracts and leave the club without any compensation for the club, upon giving two weeks notice. HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) filed a winding-up petition against Portsmouth at the High Court in London on 23rd December.

- February 2010

It had become apparent to the club's new owner Balram Chainrai that Portsmouth were approximately £135 million in debt so to protect the club from liquidation, Chainrai placed the club into administration on 26rd February 2010, and the club appointed Andrew Andronikou, Peter Kubik and Michael Kiely of accountancy firm UHY Hacker Young as administrators.

Balram Chainrai

- March 2010

The winding up order was dropped when the club went into administration. This automatically incurred a nine-point penalty from the FA Premier League which came into effect on 17th March and resigned the team to almost certain relegation, which was mathematically confirmed on 10th April.

- August 2010

Balram Chainrai completed his takeover of the club and passed the owners and Directors F&PPT. On 22 October, Portsmouth issued a statement saying: "it appears likely that the club will now be closed down and liquidated by the administrators" but key creditor Alexandre Gaydamak announced the next day that he had reached an agreement which could save their future. It was revealed just hours later that Portsmouth had finally come out of administration, with Balram Chainrai regaining control of the company.

- June 2011

Convers Sports Initiatives owned by Russian Vladimir Antonov completed its takeover of the club.

- November 2011

A Europe-wide arrest warrant was issued for owner of Portsmouth, Vladimir Aleksandrovich Antonov, by Lithuanian prosecutors as part of an investigation into alleged asset stripping at Lithuanian bank Bankas Snoras, which is 68% owned by Antonov and went into temporary administration the previous week. Operations in another of Antonov's banks, Latvijas Krajbanka were suspended by Latvian authorities on 22nd November 2011 for similar reasons. Antonov was subsequently arrested at his offices in London on 24th November and has been bailed.

Vladimir Antonov

- November 2011

Antonov resigned as chairman of Portsmouth after parent company Convers Sports Initiatives entered administration. On 24th January 2012, Portsmouth were issued with a winding up petition by HMRC for over £1.6 million in unpaid taxes, which was heard on 20 February.

- February 2012

Portsmouth went into administration for the second time in two years, bringing them an automatic 10-point deduction. Administrator Trevor Birch admitted that the financial situation was "worse than we first feared" and that Portsmouth were "struggling to make the end of the season".

- July 2012

It was announced on Portsmouth's website that the club was likely to have no alternative but to close (possibly go defunct) on 10 August unless the remaining senior first team players agreed to transfers and/or sign wage compromise deals.

- October 2012

The administrators named the Pompey Supporters Trust as its preferred bidder.

- April 2013

Portsmouth exited administration when the Pompey Supporters' Trust's deal to buy the club was completed. Portsmouth became the largest fan-owned football club in England, after the Pompey Supporters Trust (PST) successfully gained possession of Fratton Park.

[Ty]

Club Information

Including Basic FM Information

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Fratton Park

Fratton Park is the home stadium of Portsmouth F.C., the city's traditional professional football club, and is situated in the English city-port of Portsmouth. The stadium is an intimidating one for visiting supporters, mostly because of the close proximity between the pitch and the stands. The loyal support of the club can often create a very loud and atmospheric game: famously during a UEFA Cup game in 2008 AC Milan star Ronaldinho said that: "It was the best atmosphere in the world of football". The game where Portsmouth drew with the Italian Giants.

The stadium currently has four stands, all seated. The pitch runs from east to west. The largest and most modern stand, at the ground's western end, is the Fratton End (commercially known by its sponsor name as JobSite UK stand). Along either side of the pitch are the North and South stands, both of which are two-tiered. At the eastern end is the Milton End (sponsored as Apollo stand), by far the smallest stand. Formerly the only roofless stand in the Premier League, a roof was added before the 2007/08 season. This stand is shared between home and away supporters. The original entrance to the Fratton End is notable for its mock Tudor façade. Following the arrival of former owner Alexandre Gaydamak several renovations were made to Fratton Park, including improved dressing rooms, the above-mentioned roof over the Milton end and a big-screen above the police box between the North Stand and Milton End. The North Stand was refreshed for the 2010/2011 season with renewed sponsorship by Mercedes-Benz (Ridgeway Group) which replaced the "Fratton Park Portsmouth" and the club crest.

Internal

External

Club Colours & Kit

Portsmouth's first ever kit had a shirt that was salmon pink in colour with white shorts and maroon socks. This kit lasted until 1909 when they changed to white shirts with royal blue shorts and socks. This kit lasted just two years before it was changed for blue shirts, white shorts and black socks. This was Portsmouth's home strip up until 1947 when the socks were changed to red; this coincided with the club's most successful period and has remained the favoured colours for the majority of the time since. Yellow and - more recently - gold have also been used as secondary colours on the club's home shirts.

2013/2014 Home/Away Kit/Third Kit

The most frequent away colours used by Portsmouth have been white shirts with royal or navy blue shorts and either blue or white socks. The club has had white as either the second or third choice shirt for every season since 1998–99 to date. Other colours that have appeared several times on Portsmouth change kits have been yellow (usually with blue shorts) and red (often combined with black). Portsmouth have also briefly experimented with salmon pink, orange, navy blue and, perhaps most notably, gold change strips. From the 2006–07 season to the 2008–09 season the club have used black with a gold trim as their third choice colours. In the 2009–10 season the third kit was black with blue trim and thin blue hoops. The away kit was white with two navy blue vertical lines running the whole way down the side of the shirt, with the badge superimposed on top of them. The home kit has been the classic red white and blue kit, with plain blue shirt, plain white shorts and plain red socks. For the 2010 FA Cup Final, Portsmouth wore a change kit of white, maroon and pink.

Crest

The official emblem contains a gold star and crescent on a blue shield, Portsmouth's adoption of the star and crescent (usually synonymous with Islam) is said to have come from when King Richard I, granted the city "a crescent of gold on a shade of azure, with a blazing star of eight points" which he had taken from the Byzantine Emperor's standard of Governor Isaac Komnenos, after capturing Cyprus.

Throughout its history Portsmouth have tried different variations of the crest before reverting back to the basic gold star and crescent. In the 1950s and 1960s the traditional crest was emblazoned on the shirt in white rather than gold but this was due to white being a cheaper alternative. Between 1980 and 1989 the club scrapped the original crest and replaced it with a new design. This crest showed a football on top of an anchor (representing the navy) and a sword (representing the army). An interchangeable version included a circular version of the star and crescent crest in place of the football. The return of the original crest in 1989 only lasted 4 years when it was replaced by the city's coat of arms in 1993. This design was based around the basic star and crescent but was unpopular with many fans who thought it was over elaborate. After only four seasons the original crest was again reinstated. In time for the 2007 season "Since 1898" was added to the badge underneath the club's name.

On 6th May 2008 Portsmouth FC unveiled a new crest which differs significantly from the old crest. It removes the 'three points' and the 'star and moon' now have a three dimensional look. The 'moon' also has more diameter and looks quite like the city's Coat of Arms.

FM Club Information

Overview

Nation: England

Year Founded: 1898

Operating Status: Professional

Legends: None

Icons: Jimmy Dickinson, Guy Whittingham, Alan McLoughlin, Andy Awford, Linvoy Primus, Glen Johnson, Sol Campbell, Lassana Diarra, Gary O'Neil, Benjani, Robert Prosinecki, Alan Knight, David James, Nwankwo Kanu, Ricardo Rocha, Peter Harris, Duggie Reid, Avram Grant, Jamie O'Hara, Milan Mandaric, Sylvain Distin, Hermann Hreidarsson

Favoured Personnel: Glen Johnson, Sylvain Distin, David James

Derbies: South Coast Derby (vs Southampton)

Fierce Rivals: Southampton (local)

Other Rivals: Brighton (Local), Reading (Local), Bournemouth (Local)

Continental Competition: None

Media Prediction: 1st

Squad Personality: Professional

Captain: David Connolly

Vice-Captiain: Johnny Ertl

Finances

Finances: Secure

Estimated Value: £9m (Loan Debt: £9.75m)

Balance: (£500,000)

Average Ticket Price: £15

Average Season Ticket Price: £280

Season Ticket Holders: 10,980

Debt: £9.75m (Various repayments)

Transfer Budget: £0

Wage Budget: £40k/pw (Current: £35k/pw)

Facilities

City: Portsmouth

Stadium: Fratton Park

Capacity: 21178 (All Seated)

Year Built: 1898

Owned By: Portsmouth FC

Stadium Condition: Average

Under Soil Heating: No

Roof: No

Surface: Grass

Pitch Dimensions: L: 110 yards, W: 72 yards

Max. Pitch Dimensions: L: 118 yards, W: 77 yards

Pitch Condition: Very Good

Reserve Stadium: Westleigh Park, Havant

Corporate Facilities: Adequate

Training Facilities: Great

Youth Facilities: Average

Youth Setup Category: 3

Youth Stadium: Nyewood Lane, Bognor Regis

Training Ground: Langstone, Portsmouth

[Ty]

Current First Team & Analysis

Click Players Name For Screenshot

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Goalkeepers

GK - Phil Smith - #1 - Smith signed a one-month contract with Portsmouth, initially as a backup for Simon Eastwood. Smith's first public game in a Portsmouth shirt came in a fundraising friendly at Fratton Park against ÍBV Vestmannaeyjar managed by former Portsmouth legend Hermann Hreidarsson.

GK - John Sullivan - #25 - Sullivan signed a two-year deal with Portsmouth before the summer. He made his debut in a 4-1 home defeat to Oxford United on 3 August 2013. Sullivan then went on a run of six matches as Portsmouth's first choice goalkeeper, before two errors against York City resulted in the arrival of Trevor Carson from Bury, and Sullivan was dropped from the side

John Sullivan

Analysis - With no short term loans in the game, this puts Pompey without current first team starter Trevor Carson. On FM this could be a blessing, as Carson doesn't look any better than the already poor options at the club. Smith should be shipped out as soon as possible, personally I wouldn't look for a fee, just get his name off the books. Sullivan will be fine as a back up, but you should be looking to bring in a much better goalkeeper. You can pick up a few free signings such as Arran Lee-Barrett, Adriano Basso or Robert Wulnikowski. There is also a loan option in 25 year old GK from West Brom, Luke Daniels. There is no youth products at the club, with 2 greyed out players in both development squads.

- Target: Luke Daniels (WBA, Loan), Arran Lee-Barrett (Free), Adriano Basso (Free), Robert Wulnikowski (Free)

- Youth Prospect: None

Defenders

CB - Sonny Bradley - #6 - After his release from Hull, Bradley signed a two-year deal with Portsmouth before the summer. He made his debut in a 4–1 home defeat to Oxford United on 3 August 2013.

LB - Dan Butler - #34 - Butler was recalled from loan in January, and was included on first-team squad due to player shortage. He made his senior league debut in a League One match at Fratton Park, against Hartlepool United, starting the match. Butler finished the season with 17 league appearances, 15 as a starter. He signed a new two-year contract with Pompey at the start of the summer, which will see him at the club until summer 2015.

RB - Joe Devera - #5 - After 2 years at Swindon Town, making 66 appearances in all competitions, Devera signed a two-year deal at Fratton Park this summer. He is also legible to be called up to the Venezuelan national team.

Danny East

RB - Danny East - #4 - East, much like Bradley was a Hull youth player. After two loan spells at Northampton and Gillingham, East signed a two-year deal at Pompey and can play anywhere across the back line.

RB - Yassin Moutaouakil - #2 - Moutaouakil began his career at Ligue 2 club Châteauroux, even playing in the UEFA Cup. After being close to joing Luton in January, he opted to sign for Pompey until the end of the season. Following relegation, he signed a new one year deal at the club.

LB - Marcos Painter - #14 - Painter, formally of Birmingham and Swansea, is at the club on a short term contract (January).

RB - Bondz N'Gala - #3 - Bondz is a West Ham youth product, spending his 2 years at the Premiership club on loan at 4 different clubs. N'Gala signed a one-month deal with Portsmouth, extending this until January later that month. He scored his first goal in over two years and first goal for Pompey with a header from a Ricky Holmes corner against Rochdale, he netted in the 52nd minute and then scored a second again from a Holmes corner just 14 minutes later.

Bondz N'Gala

Analysis - Quite a contrast from last year, where we lacked natural fullbacks, this year we only have one natural CB at the club. This needs to be addressed to keep a solid defense and push for promotion. Fortunately, N'Gala and Devera can play here comfortably. Also Ertl and Cooper (both natural CDM's), are arguably better at CB and more useful to the club in that position. I suggest bringing Adam Webster back off his loan and into the first team, the young lad has potential, can play across the back line and will be useful in the season. There are plenty of loan options from higher clubs which would allow you to loan them in without paying more than 20% of the wages. I brought in a stronger RB, in Anthony O'Connor, but this was personal preference.

- Target: Ryan Edwards (Loan, Blackburn), Rob Kiernan (Loan, Wigan), Aaron Martin (Loan, Southampton)

- Youth Prospect: Adam Webster (on loan at Aldershot), Dan Butler (First team), Jack Whatmough (Under 18's)

Central Midfielders

CDM - Shaun Cooper - #18 - Having started his career on the South Coast with Portsmouth, Cooper spent 7 years with Bournemouth before making an unsuccessful move to Crawley. He then joined Pompey on loan, and then on a free at the end of season when his contract wasn't renewed at Crawley.

CDM - Johnny Ertl - #13 - After playing in centre back and right back roles Ertl finally found his feet in midfield. On New Year's Day, he was handed the captain armband, with Brian Howard being sidelined by injury; after Howard's departure, he was named permanent captain. Ertl finished the 2012–13 season by receiving the fans' Player of the Season award.

Simon Ferry

LM - Simon Ferry - #16 - After making over 100 appearances for Swindon, Ferry signed a two-year contract with Portsmouth, on a free transfer. He made his debut in a 4–1 home defeat to Oxford United in August, then in September, Ferry scored his first Pompey goal, in a 2–1 away victory over Burton Albion.

LM - Romain Padovani - #8 - After a few years at Monaco, Romain went on a trial at Portsmouth, after Sebastien Ewen (Yassin Moutaouakil's agent) indicated the player to Pompey. In May, Padovani signed a two-year deal with Portsmouth, with Niort also providing competition for his signature.

LM - Jed Wallace - #35 - Five days after being recalled from his Whitehawk loan, Wallace was allowed to start on the bench against Yeovil Town. In January, he was handed his first start, and scored Portsmouth's only goal in a 1–3 home defeat against Hartlepool United. He has now gone on to score 10 goals in 41 appearances for Pompey, soon becoming a fan favourite.

Jed Wallace

Analysis - Pompey have two very limited CDM's in Ertl and Cooper, both of which are possibly better at CB. If you want to play with a holding midfielder like I do, I'd suggest getting someone a little better. With either of those two either playing in defense or backup. Simon Ferry is possibly one of the best CM's in the league, so you'd get the most of him playing him in a trio in midfield, playing a playmaker next him and a holder behind, this allows him to bomb box to box. Romain can also play box to box, with Jed not quite ready to be thrown straight in to action. I'd look to sign a couple CM's on loan or on a free if you can find the right option, a playmaker would really help the team.

- Target: Ross Jenkins (Loan, Watford), John Lundstram (Loan, Everton), James Bailey (Loan, Derby), Paul Corry (Loan, Sheff Wed)

- Youth Prospect: Jed Wallace (First team), Nick Awford (Under 21's), Fahad Rwakarambwe (Under 18's)

Wide Midfielders

AML - Andy Barcham - #7 - He was released by Scunthorpe after the club was relegated to League Two. Later in the month, Barcham signed for Portsmouth on a three-year contract. He scored his first goal in August, away to Mansfield Town.

AMR - Ricky Holmes - #11 - Holmes signed a two-year deal with Portsmouth in June, following the expiry of his contract at Barnet. In September, Holmes scored his first Pompey goal, in a 2–1 away victory over Burton Albion.

Andy Barcham

Analysis - The lack of width at the club is very worrying. I like to play 41221, but even if you played 442 or 4411, you're going to need more wide players for cover and to add competition within the squad. Neither are natural at the LM/RM spot, so be aware of this if you're planning on playing 442. You have a number of players in the squad which can play wide if needed, but I suggest you don't and play everyone in their natural position. Wallace, Craddock and Harris can all play in the wide position if worse comes worst. This is the biggest concern in the squad so I would look to loan in some players right away.

- Target: Danny Green (Loan, Charlton), Donal McDermott (Loan, Bournemouth) Josh McQuoid (Loan, Bournemouth) Joe Newell (Loan, Peterborough) Angelo Balanta (Loan, QPR), Mesca (Loan, Fulham), Danny Redmond (Loan, Wigan).

- Youth Prospect: Bradley Tarbuck (Under 18's)

Strikers

ST - Patrick Agyemang - #23 - Although Portsmouth were relegated to League Two during his time on loan with the club, his impressive performances were described as a "critical reason for the marked improvement" as Portsmouth ended the season in good form. He made 15 appearances during the loan spell, and expressed a desire to remain at Portsmouth on a permanent basis. Shortly after the end of the season, Agyemang agreed a two-year deal with Portsmouth after his Stevenage contract expired.

ST - David Connolly - #9 - Connolly had been a regular member of the Republic of Ireland national team, since making his debut on 29 May 1996 against Portugal, making 41 appearances and scoring 9 times. On 31 December 2012, Connolly signed a one-month contract with Portsmouth. He made his debut a day later, against Swindon Town. He has since signed a 2 year deal at the club.

David Connolly

ST - Tom Craddock - #10 - Craddock started his career at Middlesborough and has since joined Luton and Oxford. After being released from Oxford, Craddock signed a two-year deal with Portsmouth.

ST - Ryan Bird - #15 - Bird began his footballing career at Burnham's academy, and was promoted to first team in December 2004. His main position was firstly a central defender, but later moved to a more forward role, establishing himself as a striker. As a part-time footballer, he was also an electrician. Bird came to Portsmouth on a trial basis in early June, he scored twice in a friendly match against Havant & Waterlooville. Shortly after he signed a one-year deal to remain at Pompey.

ST - Ashley Harris - #21 - Harris started his career with Portsmouth and signed two-year scholarship in July 2010. He progressed through reserve and academy sides and made his senior competitive debut on 20 March 2012 as a substitute for David Norris and nearly scored in a 4–1 victory against Birmingham City in a Championship fixture.

Ashley Harris

Analysis - Probably the strongest area of the squad. You have former international Connolly who can bang in goals, who if you played 442, will play perfectly off the big man Agyemang. Two very good strikers for the league you're in and will do you comfortably until next season. You also have Craddock and Bird who can fill in if either of those need a rest or injured, possibly not the best back-up but at this level they are fine. You have Ashley Harris, the star himself waiting for his opportunity and you would be foolish not to. I played him upfront on his own in my first season as a false nine, and boy he delivered. Scoring 29 goals and making 18 assists with 10 man of the matches, you can't ask for more! I wouldn't say you need to strengthen this area, but will leave some suggestions regardless. Alex Nimley would be an amazing coup and score for fun if you can get him.

- Target: Jamie Vardy (Loan, Leicester), Alex Nimely (Loan, Man City) Aaron McClean (Loan, Hull City)

- Youth Prospect: Ashley Harris (First team) Connor Chaplin (Under 18's)

[Ty]

Formation and Tactics

My Formation I Used With Portsmouth

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41221/451/433

If you can sign a couple extra wide players and a playmaker, this will work wonders with the squad we have. This formation suits Ashley Harris as a lone striker, due to his creative ability and flair as a false nine. Your wingers will be involved a lot in this formation, I signed Green and Newell for my wings and they was magic, before his injury green was untouchable.

Ferry was a brilliant box to box midfielder and filled in perfectly as the advanced playmaker as well, gaining 4 assists in a game against Bury near the end of the season. Romain Padovani can also slot in either slot, but seemed to perform better in the B2B role. I brought in James Bailey who was perfect for the playmaker role, him and Ferry had a brilliant connection and worked well together.

I used a few team instructions going into games;

- Exploit the flanks

- Pass into space

- Run at defense

- Be more disciplined (I found I was giving away a lot of needless fouls and yellows at the start of the game)

Obviously this is my own experience and might not work with everyone depending on signings and suitable players, but after securing an 114 point season, losing 4 games and drawing 6 with a +73 goal difference. Some of the goals we scored throughout the season was quite brilliant and played some brilliant attacking football, with the 2 men in the middle bombing on and supporting the attack, some of the triangles we played make teams like Bury and Plymouth at the end of the season look like amateur footballing sides.

Again, this probably isn't the best formation for Pompey at the start, maybe a flat 442 could probably work with our current crop of players, it would only require really bringing in a backup LM to Barcham. I haven't tried anything else so if anyone could reccomend formations they have used and worked well, I will add it into here with a bit of your write up!

[Ty]

Conclusion

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Why choose Pompey on FM13?

x The challenge of taking a cash-strapped club back to the Premiership where they belong.

x The fun of having very little to work with, and if you succeed, it would be down to great management.

x A club that was close to winning a trophy 3 years ago, how soon can you win one? (No matter how small! I am looking at you Johnstone's Paint Trophy)

x We had many England internationals in the squad a few years ago, how soon can you get another back in the squad?

x A few youngsters you are able to develop on your voyage back to the glory land. Harris, Wallace, Tarbuck, Rwakarambwe, Webster!

Let the fun begin!

[Ty]

Reserved!

[Ty]

Reserved!!

[Ty]

Had to get it up and running, I am sure there are people playing as Portsmouth out there somewhere. Coming into December and still no thread was getting to me Stole parts from my own thread last year and adjusted it for this year.

Will update in here my own game tomorrow, after winning the league first season with so much comfort.

[Jogo Bonito]

Nice thread Ty, pleased this has been created! I'm definitely planning on doing a Pompey save as there were too many issues to get far with them on FM13. Just saw a couple of minor issues that a mod could edit (1) the text on Cooper relates to Compton (2) is it really Nick Awful (or Awford)?

Amongst the transfer targets you mention, I like (and have used before) Martin, Green, Newell, Vardy and McLean - and I had also planned to lure O'Connor in from Blackburn to play right-back. Obviously it will be necessary to remove a few players from the squad to free up some wage budget first, but adding a few of these guys would be awesome in L2.

Goalkeeping options could also include Iain Turner (free) and possibly Neil Etheridge and Stuart Taylor (loans). Central defence and central/defensive midfield will definitely need to be improved. Although he's too old for me, I read somebody had re-signed Makoena to cover central defence and the defensive midfield role for a season. I like to bring players and staff with club connections, so maybe some managers will like to try that. I'd definitely bring back Webster from loan and try to utilise the likes of Butler, Wallace and Harris too.

My only concern with Pompey, perhaps you can help: are you likely to get sacked if you're not in contention during season 1, or if failing to get up by the end of it?

[Ty]

(1) the text on Cooper relates to Compton (2) is it really Nick Awful (or Awford)?

Thanks, I did this thread quite late so made a couple of mistakes here and there, so have corrected them now.

Goalkeeping options could also include Iain Turner (free) and possibly Neil Etheridge and Stuart Taylor (loans). Central defence and central/defensive midfield will definitely need to be improved. Although he's too old for me, I read somebody had re-signed Makoena to cover central defence and the defensive midfield role for a season. I like to bring players and staff with club connections, so maybe some managers will like to try that. I'd definitely bring back Webster from loan and try to utilise the likes of Butler, Wallace and Harris too.

Mokoena will ask for too much wages right off the bat, so I think he'd have to be more of a January option, as he would of lowered his demands if not with a club by then. I agree about the youngsters, Webster, Wallace and Butler all were part of my first team. Harris was the star!

Webster - 34 appearances - 2 goals - 2 assists - 3 MOTM's - 7.15

Butler - 29 appearances - 1 goal - 4 assists - 3 MOTM's - 7.15

Wallace - 33 appearances - 3 goals - 3 assists - 0 MOTM's - 6.83

Harris - 41 appearances - 29 goals - 18 assists - 10 MOTM's - 7.48

They all got their fair share of games and have all improved massively after being given the chance to play a lot of first team football.

My only concern with Pompey, perhaps you can help: are you likely to get sacked if you're not in contention during season 1, or if failing to get up by the end of it?

I can't help you there, my side completely dominated the league. This is my first save with Portsmouth, hopefully someone else can help.

[c.ronaldo7]

QUOTE=Ty;9261672] I can't help you there, my side completely dominated the league. This is my first save with Portsmouth, hopefully someone else can help.

I must admit I did attempt two Pompey saves on FM13, the first didn't end well and the second stemmed from the Tycoon save you uploaded which was very enjoyable. Having said that, if you get another Tycoon on your Portsmouth save I will be extremely bitter (but please feel free to upload it! ).

[lewis999]

Ty the pic of the formation you used isn't showing up.

[Jogo Bonito]

Thanks Ty, I'm looking forward to having a bash with Pompey and hopefully I won't find out about the sack either

[Ty]

Ty the pic of the formation you used isn't showing up.

It is on mine and my housemates computer, not sure why it isn't for you

Thanks Ty, I'm looking forward to having a bash with Pompey and hopefully I won't find out about the sack either

Good luck.

I am currently trying to bring in players for League One, tougher task than I thought.

[lewis999]

Awww really? It's winding me up now that I can't get it to show up!

[SRL88]

Even a mod can't link it in the official links .

[Craig_R.U.F.C]

Some of the images ain't loading for me either.. Strange

Anyway, I have just started with pompey. Will give updates as I go along hopefully I can get them back to where they belong if I don't get sack in the first couple months.

[Ty]

I completely forgot to update for my first season, got so sucked into my game... now half way through the second season, tearing apart League One!

Although I did just go out to Liverpool in Capital One Cup quarter finals

[Jogo Bonito]

OK, I have just got to the end of the summer transfer window (season 1) and it's time to do my first update.

Transfers In (£0k): Danny Green (Charlton, loan), Joe Partington (Bournemouth, three month loan), Neil Etheridge (Fulham, loan), Cauley Woodrow (Fulham, loan), Aaron Martin (Southampton, loan), Anthony O'Connor (Blackburn, loan).

Transfers Out (£6k): Phil Smith (Blackpool, £6k), Bondz N'Gala (released at end of contract), Bradley Tarbuck (Salisbury, loan), Ryan Bird (Lincoln, loan), Jack Maloney (Woking, loan), George Branford (Tonbridge, loan), Josh Warren (Gloucester, loan).

The starting transfer budget was zero, and the board agreed to increase my % of transfer revenue to 85%. After my one player sale and some tweaking of the budgets I now have a transfer fund available of £48k. This sets my wage budget at £38k p/w (current wage bill is £35k p/w) and it's good to have some flexibility to switch this up or down.

The reason I don't have these funds all allocated to wages is that I already have six loans and only have room for two more until the end of the season. With the exception of Partington (who has Portsmouth listed as favoured club and was given a chance on a short-term deal to prove his worth) all my other loanees are first team regulars. With only five loanees allowed in the match day squad, there was little point in wasting my two other slots now, as there may be more pressing need for loan starters later in the season if injuries dictate. Therefore if any players are likely to join between now and January, they are likely to be free transfers, out of contract players, or guys commanding low permanent fees.

This strategy to hold some slots back saw me pull out of agreed loan deals for (amongst others) Jamie Vardy, Robert Earnshaw, Paul Corry, Tim Vayrynen and Angelo Balanta, whilst other proposals to Aaron McLean, Ryan Colclough, Erik Huseklepp, Ryan Johnson, Steve Zakuani and Luvanor all fell down at the final hurdle. Work permits were denied for two strikers, namely Sebastian Saez and Ibrahima Drame. You can see from this list of names that I was particularly keen on another left-sided midfielder/winger, and another good quality striker (in the case of some, I hoped to land a special player who could perform all of these roles).

My main disappointment so far has been my inability to ship out many of the squad, even for cut-price fees. Sullivan, Devera, East, Painter, Cooper, Ertl, Holmes and Craddock were all offered out but didn't attract one single offer. Bradley would also have been in that group but started off injured so may be used as back-up. I don't have long-term plans for Agyemang or Connolly either due to their ages, but they may be useful during the course of the first season. I am always including Butler, Wallace and Harris in the team/squad (and recalled Webster from loan as he is a versatile option to have on the bench).

On the staffing front, I terminated the contracts of North, New and Buckman and brought in the following: Arthur Albiston (defensive coach), Andy Cole (attacking coach), Chris Malkin (physio), Alan McLeary (U18 manager), and former club stalwart Mick Tait (scout).

I'm currently playing a standard (flat) 442 with no specific instructions or shouts, using standard mentality and rigid fluidity. There is a possibility of changing to a 433 with Agyemang on the left as a wide target man, Green as a winger on the right, a lone striker up top and three central midfielders - but for now I'm satisfied with our shape and performances. After the first five league games we are 6th with the following record: PL5, W3, D1, L1, GF5, GA3, PTS10. As you can see, not many goals but I'm happy that we are keeping it tight as it's giving me a solid base to work from. I wasn't sorry to exit in Round 1 of the COC - a narrow 1-0 home loss in extra time to Millwall via a penalty - as it allows us to concentrate on the league.

Here is the list of fixtures and results during pre-season and the early games - our best performer so far has been Cauley Woodrow in attack, who netted a treble on his debut and a brace on his only other pre-season start. In the league he has three goals from four starts (plus one from the bench), including valuable point-earners. I only gave him a few minutes in the COC as a late substitute, so he has made an impressive start at the club.

[Ty]

Right quick update on my first season, as I am closing in on my second season - where I will start updating when things happen and with a proper season update. Will hopefully get the thread a bit more activity as well.

---

Season 13/14

After a fantastic start and an even better ending... there was only a shaky period during November/December where we dropped a lot of points. We still managed to smash the league record for points. Nearly all of those losses came in November. In the end it was easy, and the team played so well (which has actually progressed into League One).

League Table

Goals Scored/Against

We scored a lot of goals and almost half of that was scored/created by Ashley Harris, the kid had a magnificent season, which is shown by the league player stats. He couldn't be stopped, playing in the F9 role. I have tried to work on his finishing and passing, to get him really firing on all cylinders. He had a slow start to League One, but is back on form now. Our defense was solid as well, not only was we scoring but we was keeping many cleansheets as well.

Player Stats

As you can see, Harris took it by storm. Green also on loan from Charlton tore the league apart, but had a long spell on the sidelines. I managed to grab him on a free transfer at the end of the season, fighting off a couple other signatures.

Transfers

Keeper was needed, I didn't trust either Smith or Sullivan with the number one spot. Lee-Barrett did a brilliant job all season and looked to be a brilliant free signing. I play 41221 so I also needed wingers, I was still short on what I did bring in... but I did manage, having to play Harris out wide on the odd occasion. Although he lacks lots of pace, Green is brilliant technically as he proved... being the highest rated player averagely in the league. Newell came in late, but he made a massive impact. Shame we couldn't get him again, but P'boro realised he has the ability to be playing. McQuiod was back-up to Green, but when called upon was good.

James Bailey also became free at the end of the season, but I wasn't willing to pay his wages (I couldn't afford to anyway). Semedo was another player who became free at the end of the season, and I signed him up. Very good BWM at the CDM spot, he may rack up a few yellows and the odd red, but he doesn't let much past him.

That was just a quick round up of a great season, and League One is going even better. Will update when I have finished the season, I am definitely going to be promoted (spoiler alert haha)... but I am worried that the chairmen wont give me enough wage budget to bring in any Championship quality players to give ourselves a chance.

[Ty]

This was such a good effort

[Jogo Bonito]

Thanks for the updates Ty, and a very impressive first season. It sounds like season two is going better than expected too - I'm not expecting such early success myself.

I used Lee-Barrett at a couple of clubs in FM13, so it's nice to see he is still a reliable option in this version too. In retrospect, I should have gone for him or Iain Turner as free transfers because whilst Etheridge has been excellent, he does miss quite a few games on international duty - and he did take up a valuable loan spot. Surprisingly, Sullivan has done well in his couple of appearances in such circumstances.

Semedo was another one I used in FM13 (at Coventry, along with Bailey) but for some reason I didn't think I would be able to get him to Fratton Park this time - he must be the best defensive midfielder available for this level. Green (another I used in FM13 at Gillingham and Bournemouth) hasn't done much in open play for me yet, but he is good on free-kicks and we have scored four from corners originally delivered by him (three now for Martin), so I'm confident he will prove his worth over the season. Harris has mainly been a bench option for me so far, but is a rotation option with Connolly (now both used as F9) and hopefully he will contribute a bit more to the cause as we progress.

[Ty]

Got to the 6th round of the FA Cup when we was in League One, now into the 6th Round while top of the Championship. After this fantastic replay!

[Ty]

Season 2014/15 - League One

The league went just as well as League Two, absolutely dominated (after how things are going in the Championship, and that I won the league with Everton, I feel my tactics are quite strong). As you can see, we scored a lot of goals and again had minimal defeats.

League Table

The goals were mainly down to that fella again Ashely Harris destroying the league. He equaled his stats from last season again this year, on the last game of the season, scoring a hatrick and assisting one against Notts County. He finished top scorer again, but missed out on the top assister by 1. Unfortunately he hasn't been able to emulate those stats in the Championship, and lost his place in the starting XI. Here are Harris' stats and the stats against Notts County on the last game of the season...

Ashley Harris League Stats

Match Stats

It was really awesome to see the Team of the Year, with Butler, Harris, Wallace and Webster in it. All the Pompey youngsters at the start. They have all come on leaps and bounds, especially Webster and Wallace, who I think are the only two who will keep their space in the XI in the Premiership. Butler/Harris would be good rotational players though.

Team of the Year

The Cups - FA Cup, Capital One Cup & Johnstone's Trophy

Here is a screenshot of how we did in all the cups - Screenshot

We did amazing in the FA Cup and went out in the end to a very strong Swansea squad. We had a pretty easy run to the 6th round, so couldn't complain too much about getting a strong opponent in the 6th.

The Capital One Cup went amazing, so proud of the run! Beating Wolves, Bolton, Q.P.R, Nottingham Forest before eventually going out to Liverpool in the quarter final (who played a full strength team).

Johnstone Trophy was easy compared to the opposition we played in the Capital One Cup, and we was the eventual winners. Woo, my first trophy as Pompey manager. I may have won 2 leagues, but it is always nice to win a cup!

Transfers In/Out

Transfers In - Screenshot

Transfers Out - Screenshot

I managed to offload most of the League One deadwood and brought in some Championship quality players. Bringing in Amalfitano, Semedo on permanent basis and a few other Prem boys on loan. Hayward and Grant are regens I managed to snatch under the noses of Premiership teams who were chasing them, both 5* rated so I am hoping that they come good in years to come. They both look brilliant prospects.

Petrucci did enough in the season to grab a permament move to us in the summer before the Championship, he is a brilliant CM(AP) on attack. Rosenior is another coup, a fullback who can play either side and is Champ/lower Prem quality. He got 10 appearances after joining that season and has been a solid player in the Championship for me.

That is basically the season, I have almost finished an amazing season in the Championship after a bit of squad building during the summer. I genuinely think my tactics are either very strong or I have just had too strong of a squad each season. We will find out in the Prem, due to currently having a £75k a week budget in the Champ... I am hoping the board allow a lot more than that in the Prem, otherwise we're gonna struggle to bring in quality players to compete.

[Ty]

I don't know why I am being so confident about being promoted, just seen the league table... all the draws in the last month has cost me my lead at the top of the table. Oh dear, that is a lot of draws and I am only 2 points clear, woops.

[Ty]

The curse of the 6th round is over! What an incredible result in the replay!

[Jogo Bonito]

You're storming your way through the leagues there Ty, well done. It's good to see the young quartet doing well until now. I'm beginning to get more from Harris, whilst Butler and Wallace have been regulars as we hit the top of the L2 table (November 2013). I'm yet to fully utilise Webster, but he is developing and will feature more when Painter and Cooper leave in January.

[Ty]

The dream was crushed in the semi-finals

[Craig_R.U.F.C]

Wow Ty.. You are just too good at this with portsmouth! So jealous right now.

But seriously that's amazing how you are doing surely you have got to be the first person to do what you have done in the short space of time? Struggling with mine, re-started once so going to try it again.

[Ty]

Going into the Premiership, I got a budget of £200k/pw and £16m.

Almost got Ibra on a free transfer on £10k a week, would of been sorted for goals. Signed a couple of players so far, still in June. I have a bare squad, hardly any players and so many gaps to fill. Relying on free players under 25 (with room to grow) and transfer listed players. Hoping I can get enough quality young players to compete in the Prem.

[Ty]

Wow Ty.. You are just too good at this with portsmouth! So jealous right now.

But seriously that's amazing how you are doing surely you have got to be the first person to do what you have done in the short space of time? Struggling with mine, re-started once so going to try it again.

Extra effort goes in when it is Portsmouth. Plus I have nothing else to do in my life at the moment, so I am playing non-stop at the moment going into my 4th season in just over a week!

[john1]

Good to see you promoted, Ty

[Ty]

Made some cracking signings... I just lack a goalkeeper

[Hurricanez]

Thought about taking Portsmouth, how hard would it be to promote them in League One?

[Rick78]

Started with Pompey yesterday, currently in November, top of the league, 4 points clear of Cheltenham in 2nd.

Started the season with 7 clean sheets, only winning 4 though, and scoring just 7 goals!! Still unbeaten in the league. Won 10, drawn 4. Lost in the League Cup 5-3 away to Watford.

Signed a few loans, and a couple of free transfers.

In

Arran Lee-Barret (Free)

Dean Parrett (Free)

Angelo Balanta (Loan)

Danny Green (Loan)

Rob Keirnan (Loan)

Anthony O'Conner (Loan)

Ross Jenkins (Loan)

Matt Derbyshire

Only managed to sell one player and that was Phil Smith to Blackpool for £27.5k

Top scorer is Danny Green with 8 goals in 15 games.

[Ty]

Great start Rick

What formation did you set up with?

[Ty]

Thought about taking Portsmouth, how hard would it be to promote them in League One?

I found it relatively easy in League Two and One.

Should give us a try!

[Craig_R.U.F.C]

Ty does Wallace fit the box to box mold? I know he can play wide but doesn't have the pace.

Also, advanced playmaker perfect for young Fahad? You still got him on yours?

[Ty]

Jed Wallace is the perfect box to box after a bit of training, here he is on mine coming into the 2016/17 season. I have the role highlighted, he scores a few goals as well. He has the box to box role in my squad as his own, anyone else I may bring in will just be there for the weaker games and to give him a rest.

[Ty]

Not quite sure what to do with Fahad though. He is excellent physically, and box to box would of been perfect for him but he lacks certain mental attributes like off the ball and positioning. I have been trying to raise his composure to around 10, then I will put him on advanced playmaker schedule. I am currently gifted with playmakers at the moment, so when Fahad does come on the pitch... it is usally when we are winning comfortably and I slot him in for Jed. Always a pain when players have random attributes!

[Craig_R.U.F.C]

Yeah tell me about it.

Fahad has got 4 for technique which is really bad. Might have to train him to be a Box to box, though stamina and strength are low too. It sucks to have randoms stats Advanced playmaker would be the closest/best i can do with him if i can get technique up!

Will he have random stats in the winter update, or hasn't he featured much this season senior/youth wise?

[Jogo Bonito]

I'm still in November and have played only two home games recently (both disappointing 0-0 draws), but we remain top. I've been hurt by injuries to both Barcham and Holmes (four weeks each) which leaves me short on the left flank.

I tried a 433 in the first of those games with Agyemang as a wide target man on the left and Green on the right, with a sole striker, but that didn't work so I reverted back to 442 with Harris on the left in the second half, and in that role for the next match too. I might even try Green on the left and move Wallace out to the right, and see if I can find a formula to get through to January. I looked at some loan options but with only two slots left, there wasn't anybody I thought was worthy of a valuable loan slot just as a short-term fix. I was doing quite well until these two wide player injuries, which occurred within a day of each other (one in-game, the other was either in training or U21 action). Webster also got ruled out for about four months in the same week, so it's going to be a challenge picking a strong side in the weeks until the next window at least.

I agree Wallace looks like the ideal box-to-box midfielder although I just used him on 'auto' CM duties until now. It seems that all of us have sold Smith to Blackpool, although £27k trumps my £6k fee handsomely.

[Ty]

Yeah tell me about it.

Fahad has got 4 for technique which is really bad. Might have to train him to be a Box to box, though stamina and strength are low too. It sucks to have randoms stats Advanced playmaker would be the closest/best i can do with him if i can get technique up!

Will he have random stats in the winter update, or hasn't he featured much this season senior/youth wise?

Best off asking Sheer Class about that, I wouldn't have a clue myself. Sometimes random stats can be a real blessing though if you get lucky

I agree Wallace looks like the ideal box-to-box midfielder although I just used him on 'auto' CM duties until now. It seems that all of us have sold Smith to Blackpool, although £27k trumps my £6k fee handsomely.

Yeah I think I sold him for £10k, I feel he wasn't even worth that though

[Ty]

Thought I'd throw in my other 3 Pompey youngsters who are now receiving bids from bigger clubs, all have signed new contracts though. All is good!

[Jogo Bonito]

Those guys have progressed well Ty, thanks for the screenies.

I'm in to December 2013, and have the opportunity to sign Guly Do Prado and Junior N'Tame on free transfers. The former, I feel confident, would provide useful skills in wide and central attacking areas, and I think could fill in on the left flank whilst I am short of other options. The latter is a short-term solution to provide defensive back-up until the end of the season without using up any more loan slots. I'm unsure on N'Tame in particular, but knowing Webster is out for four months, and both Cooper and Painter are leaving next month, I only have Martin, Bradley, Ertl and at a push, Devera and East who are capable of playing the central defender role.

I am at the stage to confirm both deals, or cancel one or both of them. Any thoughts?

[Ty]

Devera was quality at CB for me, and that was the only position I played him. He got called up to Venezuela in League Two for me

I am not sure who N'Tame is, so I can't really give much advice there... but I am sure Guly would be brilliant for League Two/One for a year or so.

[lewis999]

He came from the Saints so wouldn't that be treachery

[Ty]

My best CB on FM13, was a young English regen I poached from their 'amazing academy' when he was 16. Had favoured clubs Southampton (supporter) in his information.

He went on to be club captain

[lewis999]

Haha if I was a Pompey fan I wouldn't of bought him just because he was a supporter.

[Jogo Bonito]

I thought Devera was a good saleable asset, but maybe in view of his versatility I might keep him, and forget N'Tame (Wrexham).

I will probably complete the deal for Do Prado - the chance to get a current Premier League player at a L2 club on reasonable terms seems too good to be true, but if he performs as he should, I can overlook the Saints link until the end of the season. Aaron Martin is already at my club on loan and has been my best player so far.