Portsmouth appoint Perrin as manager

Former Marseille coach Alain Perrin was named as manager of Premier League relegation candidates Portsmouth yesterday.

Chairman Milan Mandaric made the announcement at a news conference at the club's Eastleigh training ground.

Former Tottenham and Luton Town manager David Pleat was also confirmed as a temporary consultant until the end of the season.

"I am very happy to join the premiership and to come to England because it is the best championship in Europe," said Perrin.

"When I first had contact with the chairman, I was very happy to come here. I am very happy to find a club in England."

Portsmouth have struggled under the control of caretaker manager Velimir Zajec, the club's executive director, and coach Joe Jordan since Harry Redknapp resigned in November.

The south-coast team are 16th in the table, four points above the relegation zone.

Frenchman Perrin played down relegation fears at the club, saying the situation was more difficult for their rivals than it was for Portsmouth.

"I think the situation is not very difficult, it's more difficult for the other clubs," said Perrin.

"We have four points in hand over the teams at the bottom but I am here to give my experience from Marseille and to get as many points as possible until the end of the season."