Talking Sport: Great to see Pompey boss proving the cynics wrong

After Pompey's woeful start to the season, when some of the few remaining stars moved on, the club seemed to hit a new all-time low both on and off the pitch.
By The Newsroom
Published 12th Nov 2010, 18:32 BST
Updated 8th Jun 2018, 00:36 BST

We couldn’t buy a win for love nor money, and that was only a few weeks ago! So what’s changed?

Within a few weeks of our Championship campaign starting, a section of the fans were calling for manager Steve Cotterill’s head, unfairly comparing him to one Harry Redknapp.

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Despite a minority view claiming Redknapp was the ‘worst thing to ever happen to this club’, he did gain promotion to the Premier League, bring the FA Cup to Pompey and take us on a memorable voyage through Europe.

In truth, though, there is no comparison. Redknapp was neither working on a shoe-string, nor did he have to contend with various pending court-cases or winding-up orders. What Cotterill has done for us this season is nothing short of a miracle.

Cotterill has proved all of his cynics wrong by sending the team on a sensational winning streak, that off the back of a run of games in which games and goals were in scarce supply.

The transition almost now looks complete, with players such as David Nugent and John Utaka starting to find some long-awaited form, which is in no small part down to the additions of former Stoke duo, Dave Kitson and Liam Lawrence.

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The ex-Stoke pair have proven to be a revelation for the club, and have put a smile back on the face of Pompey faithful through their tireless and tenacious work. Other players such as Hayden Mullins, Aaron Mokoena and Michael Brown are also enjoying themselves, with Mullins netting a couple of useful goals.

The whole team are playing well, and are once again an inspiration. I for one would rather watch my side play in the Championship than in the Premier League.

It’s been a long time since I’ve seen Pompey win away and also pick up consecutive victories. Our players may still be on a sizeable salary, but it’s by no means an extortionate wage, and it’s good to see local lads coming through and getting games.

Who says promotion is out of the question?

by JACK PRESTON

* What do you think? Agree with Jack, or he is talking rubbish? Email [email protected] with your views.

Related topics:Harry RedknappPompeyPremier LeagueEuropeDavid Nugent