Harry scarpers - again

For the second - and final - time, Harry Redknapp has turned his back on Pompey.

It's likely he had taken the Blues as far as he thought he could.

And the chance to finally manage a 'big' club in his beloved London was a chance he has craved for years.

The sad fact is, though, the only loser in all this is Pompey.

That, and the swiftness of Redknapp's departure, explains a lot of the anger from the fans he has left behind.

Where does Sacha Gaydamak go to replace a man with 25 years' managerial experience who is the most charismatic man-manager in the top flight.

He can't - and murmurs that Tony Adams is in line to be his replacement worry me.

While he is hugely respected, can he connect with the players and inspire them. I'm not sure.

Pompey, at this time, need someone with the strength of belief and personality to come in and kick-off another era, not limp along trying to maintain the previous regime.

Sam Alardyce springs to mind, while up-and-coming talent Slaven Bilic would represent a coup.

Former England manager Glenn Hoddle would be an interesting leftfield option.

The interviews from Harry Redknapp over the weekend indicate it was Pompey who couldn't say no to the money.

Rubbish. It was Harry who could not say no to Spurs. Everybody realises that.

It would have done Harry no harm if he, for once, spoke honestly and treated the Pompey fans with the respect they deserve.

Instead, he comes across as patronising the people who have worshipped him for years.

It's why he will never be wholly loved at Fratton Park because, for his hyperbole (I'm thinking quotes like 'I'm Pompey till I die'), he was ultimately in it for number one.

As someone eloquently posted on The News website.

Harry is a great manager. He is not a great man.