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							<title>Portsmouth FC News</title>
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							<link>http://www.portsmouthfc.co.uk/</link>
							<copyright>Copyright(C) 2009 Portsmouth Football Club All Rights Reserved</copyright>
							<language>en-gb</language>
							<description>Portsmouth Football Club News Headlines</description>
							<lastBuildDate>Tue, 06 Jan 2009 19:12:21 GMT</lastBuildDate><item>
					<guid isPermaLink="false">www.portsmouthfc.co.uk-2001</guid>
					<pubDate>Tue, 06 Jan 2009 17:27:26 GMT</pubDate>
					<title><![CDATA[Tottenham Tickets Sold Out]]></title>
					<description><![CDATA[Pompey have sold their entire allocation of tickets for the Premier League match at Tottenham on Sunday, January 18, kick-off 4pm.

It means the Blues will be backed by 1,700 fans at White Hart Lane.

The match is being screened live on Sky Sports.]]></description>
					<link><![CDATA[http://www.portsmouthfc.co.uk/index.php?cms_ref=news&qs_article_id=2001]]></link>
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					<guid isPermaLink="false">www.portsmouthfc.co.uk-2000</guid>
					<pubDate>Tue, 06 Jan 2009 17:02:35 GMT</pubDate>
					<title><![CDATA[Liverpool Tickets Selling Fast]]></title>
					<description><![CDATA[There are only a few hundred seats remaining for Pompey’s Premier League clash with Liverpool at Fratton Park on Saturday, February 7, kick-off 5.30pm.

Only single seats and restricted views are still available.

Supporters can purchase tickets in person at the club’s ticket office in Rodney Road or by calling 0844 847 1898 (option six, 9.30am-5pm). 
]]></description>
					<link><![CDATA[http://www.portsmouthfc.co.uk/index.php?cms_ref=news&qs_article_id=2000]]></link>
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					<guid isPermaLink="false">www.portsmouthfc.co.uk-1998</guid>
					<pubDate>Tue, 06 Jan 2009 15:42:24 GMT</pubDate>
					<title><![CDATA[Bristol City Ticket Details]]></title>
					<description><![CDATA[Tickets for Pompey’s FA Cup third round replay at Bristol City go on sale to all supporters from Wednesday, January 7.

The Blues have been handed an initial allocation of 1,500 seats for the Ashton Gate clash on Tuesday, January 13, kick-off 7.45pm.

Supporters can only purchase tickets by phone on Wednesday, January 7. Call 0844 847 1898 and select option two (9.30am-5pm).

From Thursday, January 8, supporters can either purchase tickets by phone or in person at the club’s ticket office in Rodney Road.

Tickets cost £22 for adults, £15 for seniors and students with a valid NUS card, and £5 for under-16s.

Please Note: Students can only purchase tickets at the ticket office and must show a valid NUS Card. Only four phone lines will be open on Thursday, January 8.

The match will be screened live on Setanta with the winners hosting either Histon or Swansea City in the fourth round.

For travel to the game, click on the ‘Official Travel’ button on the homepage.
]]></description>
					<link><![CDATA[http://www.portsmouthfc.co.uk/index.php?cms_ref=news&qs_article_id=1998]]></link>
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					<guid isPermaLink="false">www.portsmouthfc.co.uk-1997</guid>
					<pubDate>Tue, 06 Jan 2009 13:13:11 GMT</pubDate>
					<title><![CDATA[Adams: Time For Character]]></title>
					<description><![CDATA[Blues boss Tony Adams says Pompey need to keep showing their fighting spirit ]]></description>
					<link><![CDATA[http://www.portsmouthfc.co.uk/index.php?cms_ref=news&qs_article_id=1997]]></link>
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					<guid isPermaLink="false">www.portsmouthfc.co.uk-2002</guid>
					<pubDate>Tue, 06 Jan 2009 12:03:12 GMT</pubDate>
					<title><![CDATA[Sale Now On]]></title>
					<description><![CDATA[Get over the post-Christmas blues by taking advantage of our amazing sale in all Pompey stores.

We've made massive reductions and there are huge savings available (selected lines only).

But hurry, because there is limited availability on some lines.]]></description>
					<link><![CDATA[http://www.portsmouthfc.co.uk/index.php?cms_ref=news&qs_article_id=2002]]></link>
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					<guid isPermaLink="false">www.portsmouthfc.co.uk-1996</guid>
					<pubDate>Tue, 06 Jan 2009 08:42:07 GMT</pubDate>
					<title><![CDATA[Fee Agreed For Defoe]]></title>
					<description><![CDATA[Portsmouth Football Club can confirm a fee has been agreed with Tottenham Hotspur for Jermain Defoe.

The England striker, who joined Pompey last January, has scored 17 goals in 36 appearances for the club.]]></description>
					<link><![CDATA[http://www.portsmouthfc.co.uk/index.php?cms_ref=news&qs_article_id=1996]]></link>
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					<guid isPermaLink="false">www.portsmouthfc.co.uk-1995</guid>
					<pubDate>Mon, 05 Jan 2009 18:29:32 GMT</pubDate>
					<title><![CDATA[Highlights: Pompey 0 Bristol City 0]]></title>
					<description><![CDATA[Watch all the best bits as Pompey's defence of the FA Cup begins with a 0-0 draw against Bristol City at Fratton Park.


Pompey: James; Cranie (Pamarot 82), Campbell (c), Distin, Belhadj; Wilson, Davis, Mvuemba; Nugent, Kranjcar; Crouch
Booked: Belhadj
Subs not used: Begovic, Lauren, Hreidarsson, Little, A.Traore, Kanu

Bristol City: Basso; Orr, McCombe, Carey (c), Fontaine; Sproule (Williams 64), Johnson, Elliott, Skuse; John (Adebola 62), Styvar (McCallister 83)
Booked: John
Subs not used: Henderson, Noble, Akinde

Referee: Phil Dowd

Attendance: 14,446
]]></description>
					<link><![CDATA[http://www.portsmouthfc.co.uk/index.php?cms_ref=news&qs_article_id=1995]]></link>
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					<guid isPermaLink="false">www.portsmouthfc.co.uk-1994</guid>
					<pubDate>Mon, 05 Jan 2009 18:15:50 GMT</pubDate>
					<title><![CDATA[Diop Out For Three Months]]></title>
					<description><![CDATA[Pompey's head physio Gary Sadler reveals the extent of injuries picked up by Papa Bouba Diop and Richard Hughes at Arsenal - but has some good news regarding other Blues players.]]></description>
					<link><![CDATA[http://www.portsmouthfc.co.uk/index.php?cms_ref=news&qs_article_id=1994]]></link>
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					<guid isPermaLink="false">www.portsmouthfc.co.uk-1993</guid>
					<pubDate>Mon, 05 Jan 2009 16:12:38 GMT</pubDate>
					<title><![CDATA[Sahar Ends Blues Spell]]></title>
					<description><![CDATA[Ben Sahar has returned to Chelsea after completing his loan spell at Pompey.

The 19-year-old striker arrived at Fratton Park in July but did not make a first-team appearance for the Blues.

Last season the Israel international had spells on loan at Championship sides QPR and Sheffield Wednesday. 

Sahar has now joined Dutch outfit De Graafschap until the end of the season.
]]></description>
					<link><![CDATA[http://www.portsmouthfc.co.uk/index.php?cms_ref=news&qs_article_id=1993]]></link>
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					<guid isPermaLink="false">www.portsmouthfc.co.uk-1992</guid>
					<pubDate>Mon, 05 Jan 2009 13:34:53 GMT</pubDate>
					<title><![CDATA[FA Youth Cup Tickets]]></title>
					<description><![CDATA[Tickets can be bought in advance for Pompey Academy’s FA Youth Cup fourth round tie against Manchester City at Fratton Park on Wednesday, January 14.

Seats in the south stand, priced £5 for adults and £3 concessions, are on sale from the club’s ticket office.

Alternatively, cash only tickets can be bought from the media centre on Frogmore Road on the evening of the game.

The tie against the FA Youth Cup holders kicks off at 7pm.
]]></description>
					<link><![CDATA[http://www.portsmouthfc.co.uk/index.php?cms_ref=news&qs_article_id=1992]]></link>
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					<guid isPermaLink="false">www.portsmouthfc.co.uk-1990</guid>
					<pubDate>Sun, 04 Jan 2009 19:32:38 GMT</pubDate>
					<title><![CDATA[Back To Basics]]></title>
					<description><![CDATA[Coach Paul Groves pleased to see Blues rediscover their defensive solidity]]></description>
					<link><![CDATA[http://www.portsmouthfc.co.uk/index.php?cms_ref=news&qs_article_id=1990]]></link>
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					<guid isPermaLink="false">www.portsmouthfc.co.uk-1989</guid>
					<pubDate>Sun, 04 Jan 2009 15:34:11 GMT</pubDate>
					<title><![CDATA[Histon Or Swansea Await In FA Cup]]></title>
					<description><![CDATA[Pompey will be at home to either Histon or Swansea in the fourth round of the FA Cup - if they can overcome Bristol City.

The Blues travel to Ashton Gate for their third round replay on Tuesday, January 13, kick-off 7.45pm.

If they win that match, then Histon or Swansea will visit Fratton Park on the weekend of January 24/25.

Blue Square Premier side Histon and Championship outfit Swansea will play their third round match at the Glass World Stadium on Tuesday, January 13 after the tie was originally postponed due to a frozen pitch.

Pompey have never faced Histon, but their last meeting against Swansea saw the Blues romp to a 5-0 home league victory in May 1984.

Elsewhere in the draw, Liverpool face Everton in a Merseyside derby, giant-killers Hartlepool will play West Ham and non-league Kettering are at home to Fulham.


FA Cup fourth round draw:
Liverpool v Everton
Man Utd v Tottenham
Hull or Newcastle v Millwall or Crewe
Sunderland v Blyth Spartans or Blackburn
Hartlepool v West Ham
Leyton Orient or Sheff Utd v Charlton or Norwich
Cardiff v Arsenal
POMPEY or Bristol City v Histon or Swansea
Chelsea or Southend v Ipswich
Cheltenham or Doncaster v Aston Villa
West Brom or Peterborough v QPR or Burnley
Torquay v Coventry
Kettering v Fulham
Watford v Leicester or Crystal Palace
Derby v Nottingham Forest
Birmingham or Wolves v Middlesbrough
]]></description>
					<link><![CDATA[http://www.portsmouthfc.co.uk/index.php?cms_ref=news&qs_article_id=1989]]></link>
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					<guid isPermaLink="false">www.portsmouthfc.co.uk-1986</guid>
					<pubDate>Sat, 03 Jan 2009 19:16:39 GMT</pubDate>
					<title><![CDATA[Adams: Confidence Flowing For Replay]]></title>
					<description><![CDATA[Tony Adams believes Pompey can count themselves unlucky to have only drawn against Bristol City.

The Blues defence of the FA Cup started with a stalemate against the mid-table Championship side.

It was a game of few chances at Fratton Park – but the hosts had the better of them.

Sylvain Distin went close three times in the first half with two shots cleared off the line and another saved by Robins keeper Adriano Basso.

Bristol City’s best opportunity came from a Bradley Orr header that was expertly saved by David James.

But Adams felt that on another day his side would have come away with the victory, and is confident that Pompey can finish the job in the replay at Ashton Gate.

“I thought we could have won with the chances we had,” said the Blues boss, “but it was important to keep a clean sheet.

“We had the majority of the opportunities. Sylvain Distin had a few attempts, as did Niko Kranjcar and David Nugent.

“We created enough to win the game but we’re still in the hat and we’ve got something to build on.

“On another day we would have won the game, but it’s important to stay in the cup.

“Bristol City are a difficult team to break down. They’re very organised and resilient.

“But I think we can turn Bristol City over at their place. Why not? I think we’ve got a little bit too much for them.

“But they’re a good team. Gary Johnson has got a good group of players who did a good job.”

Adams was also pleased to see his side keep a clean sheet – their first since the 3-0 UEFA Cup triumph against Heerenveen on December 17.

He said: “Lately at home we’ve been committing suicide, so it was good not to concede.

“It’s all too easy to throw on another striker trying to score and then lose by three or four.

“But it’s important that we don’t do that. We need to stay strong and keep clean sheets because that wins you football matches.

“It’s a positive step in the right direction.”
]]></description>
					<link><![CDATA[http://www.portsmouthfc.co.uk/index.php?cms_ref=news&qs_article_id=1986]]></link>
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					<guid isPermaLink="false">www.portsmouthfc.co.uk-1985</guid>
					<pubDate>Sat, 03 Jan 2009 18:57:33 GMT</pubDate>
					<title><![CDATA[Thanks Boss]]></title>
					<description><![CDATA[Marc Wilson explains his delight at being given his third straight start against Bristol City ]]></description>
					<link><![CDATA[http://www.portsmouthfc.co.uk/index.php?cms_ref=news&qs_article_id=1985]]></link>
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					<guid isPermaLink="false">www.portsmouthfc.co.uk-1984</guid>
					<pubDate>Sat, 03 Jan 2009 18:49:25 GMT</pubDate>
					<title><![CDATA[535 Minutes And Counting]]></title>
					<description><![CDATA[Pompey’s FA Cup run last year was characterised by clean sheets.

So it was fitting that they started their defence of the trophy with another one.

The pity was that the Blues could not score a goal of their own as they were held by Bristol City at Fratton Park, meaning a third-round replay at Ashton Gate. 

It was hardly an inspiring contest, with Niko Kranjcar’s second-half miss from a few yards out the game’s most significant moment.

But the Blues can take heart from the fact they have now gone 535 minutes – nearly nine hours – without conceding a goal in the FA Cup.

Blues boss Tony Adams was pleased to see Pompey look more resilient at home following the 4-1 defeat by West Ham at Fratton Park on Boxing Day.  

However City manager Gary Johnson was arguably more content with the result that put both sides in the fourth round draw.

He said: “For us this is as good as getting through to the next round and drawing a Premier League side at Ashton Gate.

“We had to compete all over the field, and we gave as good as we got. We didn’t create many chances, but a draw was a fair result.     

“As soon as you arrive at Fratton Park there’s a picture of the FA Cup being paraded around the city. That shows how much the FA Cup means to Portsmouth.”

Johnson, however, warned that the Blues will offer a stern test at Ashton Gate.

“We can’t afford to step off the pace because Portsmouth have world-class players,” he said. “We have to respect that and recognise that we have to be at our best.

“The onus will be on us at home. As the home side it will be up to us to put them under pressure.

“The FA Cup is about hanging in there. We’ve proved to ourselves we can compete against a Premier League side, and that gives us confidence for the replay.

“But we will be up against great Premier League athletes, and have to be mindful of that.”
]]></description>
					<link><![CDATA[http://www.portsmouthfc.co.uk/index.php?cms_ref=news&qs_article_id=1984]]></link>
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					<guid isPermaLink="false">www.portsmouthfc.co.uk-1987</guid>
					<pubDate>Sat, 03 Jan 2009 17:50:00 GMT</pubDate>
					<title><![CDATA[Davis Shines Again]]></title>
					<description><![CDATA[Guess what, he's done it again.

Sean Davis has won man-of-the-match for the second home game running.

The midfielder picked up the Air Malta award for another strong performance in the 0-0 FA Cup draw with Bristol City.

That followed his superb display against West Ham on Boxing Day.]]></description>
					<link><![CDATA[http://www.portsmouthfc.co.uk/index.php?cms_ref=news&qs_article_id=1987]]></link>
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					<guid isPermaLink="false">www.portsmouthfc.co.uk-1982</guid>
					<pubDate>Sat, 03 Jan 2009 16:48:43 GMT</pubDate>
					<title><![CDATA[Pompey 0 Bristol City 0]]></title>
					<description><![CDATA[A replay will be needed to settle this FA Cup third round clash after a goalless draw at Fratton Park.

Pompey created the best chances but could not manage to convert any of them and will travel to Ashton Gate on Tuesday, January 13.

Tony Adams made two changes from the side that lost at Arsenal on Sunday. 

Martin Cranie, who has just returned from a loan spell with Charlton, and Arnold Mvuemba replaced the injured pair of Richard Hughes and Papa Bouba Diop.

It was an energetic start to the match with both sides looking to attack, although neither keeper was troubled in the opening stages. 

Sylvain Distin came close to opening the scoring on 16 minutes, however. He met Niko Kranjcar’s corner but his header was cleared off the line by Peter Styvar.

The Frenchman then collected the loose ball and had another attempt but this time Louis Carey came to the visitors’ rescue with a brave block.

Bristol City could have scored themselves on 30 minutes. Ivan Sproule latched onto Lee Johnson’s through ball and advanced on David James’ goal but fired his shot wide of the post.

Distin then had his third goalscoring chance but this time his angled drive was parried clear by Bristol City keeper Adriano Basso.

Half Time: Pompey 0 Bristol City 0

Pompey should have broken the deadlock on 51 minutes when Peter Crouch chipped the ball up to leave Kranjcar with a free header but the Croatian sent his effort wide.

He went closer with a fierce shot moments later but the ball was comfortably palmed to safety by Basso.

David Nugent then turned in the box and fired a shot towards the top corner, only to see Cole Skuse divert the ball away from its intended target.

He then tried to find Crouch in the box but over-hit his pass meaning the England striker could only poke the ball straight into the arms of Basso.

Pompey were almost caught on the break on 69 minutes, though. James had to be at his most agile to tip Bradley Orr’s header over the crossbar after the right-back had connected with Dele Adebola’s cross.

Sol Campbell then made a great defensive clearance to prevent Adebola from latching onto a long ball out of the visitors’ half.

At the other end, Sean Davis hit a sweet 25-yard volley on 74 minutes but the ball was at a comfortable height for Basso to claim.

James then made a comfortable save of his own, diving low to his right to keep out Styvar’s low strike.

Pompey kept on pumping the ball forward as they looked for a winner but the search was in vain and they never really looked like breaching a resolute Bristol City defence.

Pompey: James; Cranie (Pamarot 82), Campbell (c), Distin, Belhadj; Wilson, Davis, Mvuemba; Nugent, Kranjcar; Crouch
Booked: Belhadj
Subs not used: Begovic, Lauren, Hreidarsson, Little, A.Traore, Kanu

Bristol City: Basso; Orr, McCombe, Carey (c), Fontaine; Sproule (Williams 64), Johnson, Elliott, Skuse; John (Adebola 62), Styvar (McCallister 83)
Booked: John
Subs not used: Henderson, Noble, Akinde

Referee: Phil Dowd

Attendance: 14,446
]]></description>
					<link><![CDATA[http://www.portsmouthfc.co.uk/index.php?cms_ref=news&qs_article_id=1982]]></link>
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					<guid isPermaLink="false">www.portsmouthfc.co.uk-1981</guid>
					<pubDate>Sat, 03 Jan 2009 14:09:26 GMT</pubDate>
					<title><![CDATA[Cranie Starts Against Bristol City]]></title>
					<description><![CDATA[Martin Cranie makes his first start of the season for Pompey against Bristol  City at Fratton Park today.

The defender, who has just completed a loan spell at Charlton, starts at right-back in the third round tie.

Arnold Mvuemba steps into midfield in place of Papa Bouba Diop, who is sidelined by a knee injury.

They were the only two changes from the Blues side that lost 1-0 at the Emirates on Sunday.

Richard Hughes, who started that game in midfield, misses out today with knee and groin injuries.

Tony Adams again opted for the 4-5-1 system employed at Arsenal.

Pompey: James; Cranie, Campbell (c), Distin, Belhadj; Nugent, Mvuemba, Davis, Wilson, Kranjcar; Crouch
Subs: Begovic, Pamarot, Hreidarsson, Lauren, Little, A.Traore, Kanu
]]></description>
					<link><![CDATA[http://www.portsmouthfc.co.uk/index.php?cms_ref=news&qs_article_id=1981]]></link>
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					<guid isPermaLink="false">www.portsmouthfc.co.uk-1980</guid>
					<pubDate>Fri, 02 Jan 2009 16:36:23 GMT</pubDate>
					<title><![CDATA[The Romance Of The Cup]]></title>
					<description><![CDATA[The FA Cup has had its detractors over the last few years.

Some have said that it is not the competition it used to be, with critics pointing to Manchester United’s decision to withdraw from the cup to take part in the much-maligned Club World Championship in Brazil in 2000.

There are also some managers who view the league campaign as much more vital, opting to field a weakened side when the cup weekend comes around.

But try telling Tony Adams that it is a second-rate competition.

In fact, try telling that to anyone in Portsmouth and you will be given short shrift.

Last season’s competition was the most exciting for some time, with the ‘Big Four’ all dumped out before the semi-final stage.

Pompey, of course, went on to lift the cup for the first time in 69 years after Kanu’s goal gave them a 1-0 victory against Cardiff.

And now Adams is looking for more joy as the Blues look to defend the trophy they won at Wembley last May.

“We had a fantastic run last season,” said the Blues boss. “But there’s no reason why we can’t do it again because we’ve got some great players.

“It’s a fantastic competition that I love very much. It can give you great highs and big lows – I’ve experienced both extremes.

“The cup throws up some fantastic results and scenarios – that’s what’s so great about it.

“We had a tremendous year last year. It was a fantastic achievement and we got a fantastic trophy to put on the sideboard.

“It’s such a difficult cup to win, so to bring the cup to Portsmouth was great for everyone at the club and for the fans.

“We went up to Manchester United last season and turned them over. We got a penalty and Sylvain Distin made a great tackle on the line. When things like that happen you start to think that your name is on the cup.

“We got the rub of the green there, as well as at Preston and Ipswich but you need that if you’re going to win the cup.

“I have been lucky enough to win it a few times.

“I made my playing debut with Arsenal in 1983 but I didn’t win the cup until 1993. In that time we went out to different teams at different stages but when you win it’s worth the wait.”

Pompey’s FA Cup defence begins with the visit of Championship side Bristol City on Saturday.

And Adams believes that any side managed by Gary Johnson will provide tough opposition.

He said: “Gary’s done a great job with Bristol City, just like he did with Yeovil and Latvia. He’s a great manager and a great guy.

“He gets his teams to play, so it should be an interesting game.

“Whether you’re looking to win the cup or just get into the next round, the competition is always tough.

“But we’re looking to get through to the next round. It’s devastating to lose, especially when you go out to a lower league side. 

“You only get limited opportunities to win the cup, so you don’t want to feel that you’ve wasted a chance.”

Glen Johnson (ankle), Papa Bouba Diop (knee), Richard Hughes (knee), Jermain Defoe (illness), Younes Kaboul (ankle) and John Utaka (hip) are all unlikely to feature against Bristol City.

Goalkeeper Jamie Ashdown is also a doubt after picking up an ankle injury in training earlier in the week.

But Martin Cranie is in contention for a place in the side after returning from his loan spell with Charlton.
]]></description>
					<link><![CDATA[http://www.portsmouthfc.co.uk/index.php?cms_ref=news&qs_article_id=1980]]></link>
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					<guid isPermaLink="false">www.portsmouthfc.co.uk-1979</guid>
					<pubDate>Fri, 02 Jan 2009 14:33:51 GMT</pubDate>
					<title><![CDATA[Storrie: Media Speculation Is Rubbish]]></title>
					<description><![CDATA[Pompey executive chairman Peter Storrie has spoken out about the media speculation concerning the club's finances and poured cold water on rumours of a firesale at Fratton Park in the January transfer window.

He said: "Quite simply the media speculation is a load of rubbish.

"The club is not in any financial difficulty. Yes, we are up for sale, but so are about a third of Premier League clubs. 

"Sacha Gaydamak will only sell to a buyer who is prepared to invest and take the club to the next level. If that doesn’t happen he will continue to support Portsmouth Football Club in the same way that he has for the past three years.

"Having sold Lassana Diarra to Real Madrid we do not have to sell any more players. 

“Jermain Defoe seems to want to leave and Tony Adams said publicly on the day he took the manager's job that he only wants players here who want to play for the club.

"Should we sell Jermain it will only be at the right price. Spurs are clearly interested but if they want him they will have to match our valuation. It will be on our terms. And if he goes, he will be the only one and he will be replaced.

“Even then it will be up to Tony, so I don't envisage any other movement out except for some players who are out of contract at the end of the season and are not figuring in the first team squad.

"We have already secured the permanent signing of Nadir Belhadj and Tony and I are working on getting some other new faces in as quickly as we can to bolster the squad. 

“We are also in the process of offering new deals to some of the players who are out of contract at the end of the season."
]]></description>
					<link><![CDATA[http://www.portsmouthfc.co.uk/index.php?cms_ref=news&qs_article_id=1979]]></link>
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					<guid isPermaLink="false">www.portsmouthfc.co.uk-1978</guid>
					<pubDate>Wed, 31 Dec 2008 12:04:51 GMT</pubDate>
					<title><![CDATA[David v Goliath]]></title>
					<description><![CDATA[FA Cup third round weekend.

It is the time of year that invokes feelings of both excitement and fear into the hearts of Premier League sides.

They will all be hoping that it is the start of a journey that ends at Wembley on May 30.

But there is also the prospect of an embarrassing exit at the hands of lower league opposition.

At this stage last season, a massive nine Premier League sides were dumped out of the competition without clearing the first hurdle.

Aston Villa, West Ham, Sunderland and Reading were all defeated by fellow top-flight clubs – but the others were humbled by less illustrious opposition.

Oldham beat Everton in arguably the biggest shock, while Bolton, Blackburn, Fulham and Birmingham lost to Sheffield United, Coventry, Bristol Rovers and Huddersfield respectively.

Pompey, of course, overcame a tricky tie at Championship outfit Ipswich, with a solitary David Nugent strike ensuring their passage into the last 32.

We all know what happened after that: Plymouth, Preston, Manchester United, West Brom and Cardiff were all beaten as the Blues lifted the FA Cup for the first time since 1939.

The defence begins with a visit from Bristol City and with all eyes on the holders, the mid-table Championship side will be hoping to spring a surprise.

But Pompey have not lost at this stage since they won promotion to the Premier League in 2003.

It was that title-winning season that last saw them exit at the third round stage, although a 4-1 defeat at Manchester United was not exactly something to be ashamed of.

The same thing cannot be said about the Blues’ loss 12 months earlier, however.

The visit of Leyton Orient from the Football League’s basement division should have been comfortably negotiated.

It all started well enough when Dean Smith’s own-goal gave Pompey the lead. But Graham Rix’s side capitulated after the break, conceding four goals to seal a humiliating thrashing.

Peter Crouch started for the Blues that day, so he will need no reminding about what can happen in the FA Cup.

The competition is always described as a great leveller with the minnows on the lookout for the giant-killing that will see them hit the headlines.

Blue Square North side Blyth Spartans have already captured the imagination of football followers with victories against league sides Shrewsbury and Bournemouth.

They will be hoping for more joy when they take on Blackburn Rovers at Croft Park on Monday night, no doubt backed by neutrals all around the world.

There will be at least one shock in the third round – history tells us that. 

The Pompey giants just need to make sure that they live to fight another day. 
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					<pubDate>Wed, 31 Dec 2008 09:09:01 GMT</pubDate>
					<title><![CDATA[Christophe Signs For Southend]]></title>
					<description><![CDATA[Jean Francois Christophe has joined League One side Southend United for an undisclosed fee.

The 21-year-old French midfielder has signed a two-and-a-half year contract with the Essex club.

Christophe joined Pompey from Lens in June 2006 but never made a first-team appearance for the Blues.

He had loan spells with Bournemouth and Yeovil, before joining Southend for three months earlier in the season.

Christophe has scored two goals in 18 appearances for the Shrimpers so far this season, enough to convince manager Steve Tilson to make his stay permanent.

The switch will officially be completed when the transfer window opens on January 1.
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					<pubDate>Tue, 30 Dec 2008 17:41:35 GMT</pubDate>
					<title><![CDATA[Ritchie Extends Daggers Stay]]></title>
					<description><![CDATA[Matt Ritchie has extended his loan spell at Dagenham & Redbridge until the end of the season.

The Blues midfielder has been a hit at Victoria Road since arriving in September, scoring five goals in 17 appearances.

The 19-year-old’s performances have helped the Daggers to fourth place in League Two.

Dagenham manager John Still praised the contribution made by Ritchie.

He said: "I'm not keen on taking loan players but in Matt Ritchie I've made an exception. 

"His work ethic and determination to prove himself in the Football League is outstanding."
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					<pubDate>Tue, 30 Dec 2008 16:36:19 GMT</pubDate>
					<title><![CDATA[Diop Sees Specialist]]></title>
					<description><![CDATA[Papa Bouba Diop has seen a specialist in London about his knee injury.

Pompey have already conducted a scan on the midfielder’s right knee, which was hurt in the 1-0 defeat at Arsenal on Sunday.

Meanwhile, team-mate Glen Johnson is making steady progress in his recovery from injuries to his left ankle and right knee.

The England right-back, who has been sidelined for three weeks, is kicking a ball again as he eyes a return to full training.

Richard Hughes is having treatment on the groin he hurt in the loss at the Emirates. The injury forced him to limp off five minutes into the second half.

John Utaka and Younes Kaboul are nursing knocks suffered in training on Christmas Day.

Utaka, who had been sidelined with a sore hip, is now being treated for a thigh strain, while Kaboul has a sore ankle.
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					<pubDate>Tue, 30 Dec 2008 11:25:23 GMT</pubDate>
					<title><![CDATA[Belhadj Signs Long-Term Deal]]></title>
					<description><![CDATA[Nadir Belhadj has signed a four-and-a-half-year contract with Pompey.

The Blues have paid French side Lens 4.5m euros for the 26-year-old left-sided player.

Belhadj has made the switch after a successful loan spell at Fratton Park in which he has scored twice in 23 appearances.

The Algeria international officially becomes a Pompey player on January 1, when the transfer window opens.

Tony Adams said Belhadj’s capture came with a ringing endorsement from Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger.

The Blues manager said: "I’m delighted to have secured Nadir as a permanent signing. 

“Nadir is an excellent acquisition for the club and even Arsene Wenger commented on his ability to spring from defence to attack so quickly. He has great pace and energy and is a terrific crosser of the ball, too. 

“At the moment he's playing left back and developing a good relationship with Niko Kranjcar, but he can also play left midfield. 

“His enthusiasm is first class and he's already a big favourite with the Fratton Park fans - they recognise he gives everything."
 
Blues executive chairman Peter Storrie said: "I'm delighted to have turned Nadir's move into a permanent one. 

“There was a lot of interest in him from a number of clubs across Europe, but he is enjoying his football on the south coast and was very keen to sign a long-term contract with us.”

Belhadj arrived on loan from Lens in the summer transfer window and made his debut in the 2-1 defeat of Middlesbrough at Fratton Park on September 13.

His first goal for the club came in the 2-1 win over Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on November 8. He also scored the opener against West Ham at Fratton Park on Boxing Day.

The French-born player began his career with Lens before spells at Sedan, Gueugnon and Lyon, returning to Lens a year ago.
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					<pubDate>Tue, 30 Dec 2008 09:58:48 GMT</pubDate>
					<title><![CDATA[Highlights: Arsenal 1 Pompey 0]]></title>
					<description><![CDATA[Watch the Blues come so close to snatching a point at the Emirates Stadium.


Pompey: James; Wilson, Campbell (c), Distin, Belhadj; Nugent (Defoe 88), Diop (Pamarot 90), Davis, Hughes (Mvuemba 50), Kranjcar; Crouch
Booked: Hughes
Subs not used: Ashdown, Hreidarsson, Little, Kanu

Arsenal: Almunia (c); Sagna, Gallas, Silvestre, Clichy; Eboue (Vela 66), Diaby (Ramsey 75), Denilson, Nasri; Bendtner, Adebayor
Goals: Gallas 81
Subs not used: Fabianksi, Toure, Gibbs, Wilshere, Van Persie

Referee: Alan Wiley

Attendance: 60,092
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					<pubDate>Sun, 28 Dec 2008 18:13:16 GMT</pubDate>
					<title><![CDATA[That's More Like It]]></title>
					<description><![CDATA[When you are in a rut, things tend not to go your way.

That is something Tony Adams knows all about after watching Pompey lose 1-0 at Arsenal to leave them without a win in five Premier League matches.

It looked as though the Blues had done enough to take a point away from the Emirates Stadium after producing a resolute performance.

The Gunners had few clear-cut chances during the match and Peter Crouch could even have put Pompey ahead with a header that struck the post.

But on 81 minutes William Gallas met Samir Nasri’s cross to break the deadlock and leave the Blues with nothing to show for their brave efforts.

Playing well but losing – it is an unwanted pattern for Pompey currently.

But despite the disappointing results, Adams cannot fault his players’ work-rate.

“I thought we’d done enough to get something out of the game like when we went up to Liverpool in my first game in charge,” sighed the Blues boss.

“We played the same kind of system there and were about 12 minutes away from getting something.

“Results aren’t going our way, but the players are certainly fighting hard.

“They’re working really hard for me and I’ve got no complaints in that department.

“I’m really encouraged – not with the results but the way they’re performing.

“We tried to get the ball to Sean Davis - I was encouraging the boys to get the ball down and play.

“Marc Wilson did well and he’s a great prospect. I think he’s got a massive future with this club.

“We defended well. It starts from the front and I thought David Nugent was exceptional. He worked very hard.”

Adams was pleased to see his side look stronger defensively in north London after conceding some poor goals in recent weeks.

He said: “We’ve been throwing caution to the wind a little bit lately. As soon as we went behind against Newcastle and West Ham, we were trying everything to get back in the game.

“If you had a chart with ‘we won’t get beaten' at one end and ‘let’s try to win’ at the other, we’ve been in the latter category and we’ve been getting done every time.

“Against West Ham we created the most crosses so far this season and did the most running so far this season. There are some really positive things there.

“Psychologically we have had to look at things and the players have to concentrate on their job. If you’re a centre-back then don’t end up on the left wing. Don’t vacate your position to try to get a goal.”

The Blues suffered a double blow at the Emirates with Papa Bouba Diop (knee) and Richard Hughes (groin) both suffering injuries.

Adams said: “Papa was very powerful – he was immense. But I think he’s done his medial ligament and Richard Hughes has done his groin, so that’s not great for us.”

Jermain Defoe was left on the bench against Arsenal with Adams opting to play Peter Crouch on his own up front in a 4-5-1 formation.

“He was really annoyed with me for leaving him out,” said former Arsenal skipper Adams. “He’s still angry with me and I don’t want it any other way.

“It was tactical – the same as it was up at Liverpool. 

“He could turn around to me and tell me I got it wrong because we lost but it’s not easy being a manager and you have to make difficult decisions.

“He’s a fantastic football player who scores great goals but we’ve been struggling a bit with the balance of our side and so I chose to put him on the bench.”

Adams also refused to blame David James for Arsenal’s winning goal, despite the keeper failing to collect the cross that Gallas scored from.

He said: “Goalkeepers are in a really difficult position. You have to run the risk of making mistakes in that position because you’ve got no-one to cover you.

“He made a magnificent save just before the goal. It was one-on-one and a great piece of goalkeeping.”]]></description>
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					<pubDate>Sun, 28 Dec 2008 17:36:50 GMT</pubDate>
					<title><![CDATA[Take Heart]]></title>
					<description><![CDATA[Richard Hughes believes switching to a 4-5-1 system was the key to Pompey’s superb defensive display at Arsenal.

It took William Gallas’ later header to break Pompey’s resistance after Peter Crouch had earlier hit the post for the Blues.

It’s four straight defeats for Tony Adams’ side as they head into the new year.

But Hughes says Pompey are close to getting things right. 

“I hope our performance reinforces the point that we’ve not become a bad team,” said the midfielder.

“We defended well. We were very disciplined and compact, worked hard for each other and were desperate to grind out a result. I couldn’t see Arsenal scoring, but then we got punished right at the end.

“It’s a disappointing result, but if anyone needed to take some heart then it was right there at the Emirates.

“We played 4-5-1 with Crouchy up front working his socks off and an extra man in midfield, where Sean Davis was excellent. 

“We went places last season playing 4-5-1 away from home. Our away record was outstanding. And playing that formation at Arsenal was the key to our very good defensive display. 

“At home, where the onus is to go forward, we do that with some very good attacking players. 

“We haven’t been getting the balance right in recent games at Fratton, when we’ve been chasing games in the last 20 minutes and conceding late goals.

“But in both the games we lost to West Ham and Newcastle we should have been leading long before we went behind.

“We played very well for 70 minutes against West Ham but ended up losing 4-1.

“There’s disappointment because we don’t feel we’re getting what we deserve at the minute. Our pride is hurt because we put in a good shift at Arsenal and came so close to getting a point. 

“We’ve got a proud bunch of guys in the dressing room who care. In the West Ham game the statistics showed it was the hardest we’ve worked all season, despite the result.

“We want to get good results and hopefully this performance at Arsenal will tell people we’re not a million miles away from getting things right.”       

Hughes limped off with a groin injury early in the second half, making him a doubt for Saturday’s FA Cup third round tie with Bristol City at Fratton Park.  
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					<pubDate>Sun, 28 Dec 2008 15:46:35 GMT</pubDate>
					<title><![CDATA[Arsenal 1 Pompey 0]]></title>
					<description><![CDATA[Pompey looked on course for a point at the Emirates Stadium but were undone by a late William Gallas goal.

Tony Adams made two changes from the side that lost against West Ham on Boxing Day. 

David Nugent and Papa Bouba Diop started in a 4-5-1 formation with Jermain Defoe and Glen Little dropping to the bench.

Nugent had an early chance when he received the ball on the right side of the box but his scuffed drive was easily held by Manuel Almunia.

And the Blues were inches away from taking the lead on 24 minutes. Marc Wilson’s left-footed cross from wide on the right was headed against the post by Peter Crouch.

But Arsenal went even closer seven minutes later when Emmanuel Adebayor latched onto Abou Diaby’s through ball.

The Togo striker rounded David James and had an empty net to shoot into, but Sylvain Distin timed his sliding tackle to perfection and cleared the ball behind for a corner.

It was proving to be an absorbing end-to-end encounter with both sides looking capable of scoring.

Another fine cross from Wilson was met by Crouch on 38 minutes but he could not get any power behind his header and Almunia comfortably claimed.

Half Time: Arsenal 0 Pompey 0

Arsenal almost broke the deadlock within two minutes of the restart when James failed to hold Samir Nasri’s corner, but Nicklas Bendtner’s header was cleared off the line by Distin.

Pompey were forced into making a change when Richard Hughes limped off on 50 minutes to be replaced by Arnold Mvuemba.

Adebayor then found the side netting with an angled drive as the Gunners looked to push forward and attack at every opportunity.

Arsenal were certainly enjoying more of the possession and were winning plenty of corners but resolute defending meant James had little to worry about.

The Blues keeper had to be alert on 73 minutes however, racing off his line to block Nasri’s low shot.

Pompey still looked capable of scoring themselves and Almunia had to save Sean Davis’ fierce strike following some good build-up play by Nugent and Crouch.

It looked as though the Blues had done enough to win a point but on 81 minutes Gallas met Nasri’s cross and headed home for the hosts.

They should have extended their advantage moments later but Adebayor just failed to connect with Carlos Vela’s low cross.

Pompey: James; Wilson, Campbell (c), Distin, Belhadj; Nugent (Defoe 88), Diop (Pamarot 90), Davis, Hughes (Mvuemba 50), Kranjcar; Crouch
Booked: Hughes
Subs not used: Ashdown, Hreidarsson, Little, Kanu

Arsenal: Almunia (c); Sagna, Gallas, Silvestre, Clichy; Eboue (Vela 66), Diaby (Ramsey 75), Denilson, Nasri; Bendtner, Adebayor
Goals: Gallas 81
Subs not used: Fabianksi, Toure, Gibbs, Wilshere, Van Persie

Referee: Alan Wiley

Attendance: 60,092
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					<pubDate>Sun, 28 Dec 2008 14:11:19 GMT</pubDate>
					<title><![CDATA[Highlights: Pompey 1 West Ham 4]]></title>
					<description><![CDATA[Watch Pompey's Premier League encounter against the Hammers at Fratton Park.


Pompey: James; Wilson, Campbell (c), Distin, Belhadj; Little (A.Traore 71), Davis, Hughes, Kranjcar; Crouch, Defoe (Kanu 73)
Goals: Belhadj 8
Booked: Wilson
Subs not used: Ashdown, Pamarot, Hreidarsson, Diop, Nugent

West Ham: Green; Neill (c) (Faubert 46), Davenport, Upson, Ilunga; Behrami, Noble (Boa Morte 73), Parker, Collison; Cole (Tristan 87), Bellamy
Goals: Collison 20, Cole 67, Bellamy 70, 83
Booked: Noble, Behrami, Parker
Subs not used: Lastuvka, Collins, Mullins, Di Michele

Referee: Steve Bennett

Attendance: 20,102
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