Paul Hart took over as manager of Rushden & Diamonds, following the departure of Barry Hunter. After an average start to the season, Diamonds embarked on an eight match winless run, leading to Hart leaving the club in October by mutual consent. Hart joined Premier League club Portsmouth as Director of Youth Operations in 2007. He was asked to take over as caretaker manager, initially for one game only following the sacking of Tony Adams on 9 February 2009. Shortly afterwards, Hart brought Brian Kidd in as his assistant. He won his first game in charge 2–0 at home to Manchester City
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