Portsmouth - A fan's view
Thursday, 24 May 2007 17:56
Good, bad or just the same old, same old. What the fans made of the 2006/07 season.
Harry Redknapp's skin-of-the-teeth escape from the drop last season meant most fans' objective was simply to see the side stay in the Premiership and have a good cup run.
However, on the back of funds released by Alexandre Gaydamak – which came amid much public haggling by wily Harry – some judicious signings carried on the momentum from the end of the 2005/06 season.
Sol Campbell was a calming presence for Pompey at the back and, allied with fresh chances for the likes of Chelsea reject Glen Johnson and a rejuvenated David James, the Pompey chimes were ringing out at Christmas time as the side sat in a Champions League berth.
Inevitably the squad could not sustain the run and a mini-slump in mid-season dampened expectations, but a strong finish saw us narrowly miss out on European football via the Uefa Cup. Nevertheless even though we exited early in both cups, the league form and the scalps of Manchester United, Everton and Liverpool made for a fantastic season.
Grade: A
High Point
The victory over Manchester United when they were sweeping all before them in their pursuit of the league title was a sweet moment.
Low Point
Losing to Watford in fairly comprehensive fashion in the Premiership after our performances earlier in the season was hard to swallow.
Fan's Player of the Year
- David James -
The goalkeeper-formerly-known-as-Calamity James shrugged off his detractors to produce a series of sterling performances and also, amazingly, claim the Premiership record for the most clean sheets. Always a strong shot-stopper, James has been given a new lease of life under Harry Redknapp and has even got people talking about a possible recall to the national team.
Needs for Next Season
The key for next season is to build on the foundations we have laid this year. Wholesale changes aren't needed but the addition of a quality striker wouldn't go amiss. Harry has already picked up some value in Sylvain Distin on a free and is urging the chairman to make the funds available for success next year. Mark Viduka is one player who would complement the team well.
Nathaniel Bertram
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