Avram Grant resigns as Portsmouth manager: Israeli quits south coast club to take 'a different direction'

By Sportsmail Reporter
Updated: 15:42 EDT, 20 May 2010

Avram Grant has resigned as manager of Portsmouth.

The Israeli, who won widespread praise for his ultimately unsuccessful attempts to keep the crisis-hit club in the Premier League, revealed his decision in an open letter to fans on the club's official website.

'This was one of the most difficult decisions I've had to take in my football career. After a lot of soul searching and under the circumstances I'm taking a different direction,' Grant said.

Goodbye to all that: Avram Grant bids farewell to the Pompey faithful after the FA Cup final - his last game at charge

The statement continued: 'It's been both a difficult and complex year for us at the club, but at the same time, it's been a wonderful and uplifting professional and personal experience.

'I have been inundated with letters and emails from fans. Many have brought tears to my eyes and take it from me; it takes a lot to do that. I will never forget you, the loyal fans of Pompey who, without a doubt, helped me protect the team under such complex circumstances.

'There are very few teams in the world that have fans as passionate and devoted as you are. Seeing you all so proud with your heads held up high is the best reward I can receive.

'It has been a great experience to be part of one of the most wonderful occurrences that has happened in the history of British football and also shows that even in the most desperate times, loyalty, devotion, professionalism and passion can be demonstrated. I wish you all the possible success which you genuinely deserve.'

Fans man: Grant saluted the Pompey fans

Grant took over at Fratton Park from Paul Hart in November.

His time in the hotseat, though, was beset by off-field problems as the full scale of their financial trouble began to emerge. The club went into administration in February and the following month were deducted nine points by the Premier League which all but condemned them to relegation.

Grant, whose side finished the season bottom of the table with 19 points, still
managed to lead Portsmouth to the FA Cup final. They went down 1-0 to his former
side Chelsea at Wembley last weekend, having claimed a shock last-four success
over Tottenham.

The Israeli's statement continued: 'Portsmouth has given me a feeling of home away from home.

'I might be leaving Portsmouth physically, but you cannot take Portsmouth away from me and my heart.

A captured heart: Grant bows to Portsmouth fans at Wembley

'I have informed Andrew (Andronikou) the administrator that if and when the need arises, I will be at his disposal to assist in any way I possibly can.

'At this point I would like to mention the good job the administrator is doing, under very difficult circumstances after he received the club from Mr Chernoi and Mr Levy which they had saved from liquidation. Thank you for that.

'I can never fully repay the faith and backing I got from the fans, players and staff who gave 100%. I truly thank you all for granting me the opportunity and the privilege to be part of your special city and unique club.'

Grant is expected to take over as manager of West Ham, who parted company with
Gianfranco Zola last week.