Pompey charged by the PL

[Sir Tokyo Sexwale]

Portsmouth were yesterday charged by the Premier League with breaching its "approach rules" in their pursuit of Harry Redknapp, and face a fine or reprimand if found guilty. Portsmouth are alleged to have spoken to Redknapp about returning to Fratton Park as manager without Southampton's permission.

 

Southampton made an official complaint to the league after Redknapp took over at Portsmouth last month, but Redknapp has described allegations that he was tapped up as "a load of old tosh" and Portsmouth will contest the charges.

The Premier League has charged Portsmouth with a breach of their rules over the appointment of Harry Redknapp as manager at Fratton Park.

 

 

The League received an official complaint from Redknapp's former club Southampton and decided to take action.

 

"Having considered the circumstances, the Board of the Premier League has charged Portsmouth with breaching the approach rules," said a statement.

 

"A Commission will be appointed to deal with the matter," it concluded.

 

Redknapp left his job at St Mary's on 3 December and was announced as the new Pompey boss just four days later.

 

Saints chairman Rupert Lowe said at the time he would be reporting the matter to the Premier League as he was not happy with Portsmouth's behaviour.

 

He had said: "As far as I am concerned even if there has not been a breach of rules there has been a breach of courtesy and basic good manners."

 

Redknapp, 58, had quit his first spell at Portsmouth on 24 November 2004 to take over at arch-rivals Saints 14 days

 

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