Finnan: Portsmouth facing uncertain future

Republic of Ireland defender Steve Finnan accepts it will be something of a step into the unknown this summer as Portsmouth set about rebuilding the club.

Republic of Ireland defender Steve Finnan accepts it will be something of a step into the unknown this summer as Portsmouth set about rebuilding the club.

The veteran defender, 34, played what is likely to be his last game for Pompey in the FA Cup final defeat to Chelsea at Wembley yesterday.

With the Fratton Park club – who remain some £138m in debt – looking to restructure for life in the Coca-Cola Championship following administration, there are set to be plenty of changes to personnel.

While new contacts could yet be on offer for the likes of Finnan and England goalkeeper David James, they are set to be at a significant drop in salary.

Others are to return to their parent clubs following the end of loan deals, or will simply become free agents when their current deals expire.

Finnan, though, remains pretty relaxed about his own future, having played at the World Cup with the Republic of Ireland, in the Champions League final with Liverpool and at all levels of the English game, from Welling United to Anfield.

“I am 34 now, so am not like the younger ones who want their futures sorted out as soon as possible,” said Finnan, who signed a one-year contract last summer after a spell at Espanyol.

“Half the squad is going to go now, I would imagine.

“There were a lot of players on loan who you will not see again.”

Portsmouth’s administrator Andrew Andronikou accepts the team will be much changed for next season, but is hopeful some of the current squad – and indeed manager Avram Grant – can be retained.

“The club did not want to do anything before the final, so I am sure people will get a call soon,” said Finnan.

“Portsmouth have to move on and continue, if they are going to have to let players go, they are also going to have to get players in.

“I will just wait and see, but I do not think I will be at Portsmouth next season.

“It will be the first time I have had a long break for a while, so in about six weeks I will have a decision to make.”

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