Adams axed by Pompey

The struggling side lost 3-2 to Liverpool on Saturday after conceding two late goals, and the Fratton Park board have opted to remove Adams and first-team coach John Metgod. The club's director of youth operations, former Nottingham Forest boss Paul Hart, has been installed as caretaker manager.

A Portsmouth spokesman told official club website www.pompeyfc.co.uk: "This has been a very difficult decision and Tony has worked tirelessly to arrest the slump in form."

He added: "He is rightfully highly-respected within the football world and played a major role in our FA Cup triumph last season. We would like to thank him and John and wish them well in the future.

"The owner and the board feel they have been as supportive as they can during a period where results have been poor. The team has played well but too many points have been dropped from winning positions.

"Notwithstanding the adverse economic conditions the board remains committed to the continued growth and development of the club for the future, building on its achievements of the last three years.

"The priority is for Portsmouth Football Club to remain in the top flight and we feel the appointment of a new manager will give us the best opportunity to enable us to do this.

"Paul Hart knows the football club, having joined us nearly two years ago, and is a respected coach with managerial experience."

Former Arsenal and England captain Adams had only been in charge on the south coast since October 25 when he was named caretaker manager following the departure of Harry Redknapp.

Adams was then confirmed as Pompey boss on October 28. However, a run of just two wins in 16 league games has seen the club slide down the table and they now lie just one point above the relegation zone. They were also knocked out of the FA Cup after a 2-0 home defeat to Coca-Cola Championship Swansea.