History of Portsmouth F.C. place, thanks to academy director Paul Hart stepping in as caretaker boss, seven points clear of the relegated clubs, despite the disruption brought by the departure of Harry Redknapp and the subsequent sacking of his successor, former assistant manager Tony Adams. At the start of the 2008–09 season rumours began to fly around that Portsmouth were facing crippling debts due to their recent heavy spending and owner Alexandre Gaydamak was looking to sell the club. After Redknapp's departure many key players began to depart with Lassana Diarra and Jermain Defoe leaving in January. In May 2009, Sulaiman Al-Fahim had a
1999–2000 Portsmouth F.C. season 1999–2000 Portsmouth F.C. season During the 1999–2000 English football season, Portsmouth F.C. competed in the Football League First Division. Manager Alan Ball's contract was terminated on 9 December with Portsmouth in the relegation zone. He was replaced by Bristol City manager Tony Pulis, who steered the club to survival in the First Division. The end of the season saw the retirement of club goalkeeping legend Alan Knight, who made 801 career appearances over 22 years, all spent at Fratton Park. His final appearance came in a First Division match against Norwich City at Carrow Road in January. Portsmouth ended their