Adams appointed Pompey boss
Portsmouth name Tony Adams as new first-team manager
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Tuesday, 28, Oct 2008 10:31
Portsmouth have today promoted former assistant Tony Adams to the role of first-team manager on a two-year contract.
Adams was Harry Redknapp's number two at Fratton Park for two-and-a-half years before the former West Ham United and Southampton boss quit the south coast to take charge of Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend.
The first match for former Arsenal defender Adams will be tomorrow night's difficult away trip to Liverpool.
And Portsmouth executive chairman Peter Storrie said he is "delighted" with the appointment.
"He has worked with Harry and [first-team coach] Joe [Jordan] and played a key part in the success of the last couple of years and deserves this chance to manage at the top level," Storrie said.
"Tony has the respect of the squad and knows the set-up here at Pompey and is a very popular figure among all staff."
Storrie revealed Adams had been among the first applicants for the post, which will be his second managerial role after an ill-fated 12 months with current League Two club Wycombe Wanderers between November 2003 and November 2004.
"Tony made it known to myself and owner Alexandre Gaydamak that he felt the time was right for him to become our manager," Storrie continued.
"He impressed both of us with his passion and commitment for the role and we are sure we have the right man for the job."
Adams described the role as "a great opportunity" to take on management at the top level following a star-studded playing career that saw him win 66 England caps and make over 500 league appearances for the Gunners.
"I am ready to make the step up to manager of this football club," Adams said.
"I've gained a lot of experience alongside Harry and Joe over the past two and half years and am determined to give the role everything and continue the success that we have had here at Fratton Park over the last two seasons.
"We have a great squad of quality players and have made a good start to the season.
"My job is to build on that start both in the Premier League, the Uefa Cup and, of course, in our defence of the FA Cup.
"We have fantastic support from very fervent fans and an exciting future ahead both on the field and off it with plans for a new training ground and stadium on the horizon."