Mandaric still chasing 'other candidates'
Harry Redknapp’s fears that he could be left “in limbo” look set to be realised after Milan Mandaric revealed Portsmouth are not planning further talks with Southampton.
Saints chairman Rupert Lowe on Monday turned down a “derisory” compensation offer from Portsmouth for the services of Redknapp, who walked out of St Mary’s on Friday after being denied permission to discuss a return to his former club.
Pompey chief Mandaric insists the offer of up to £125,000 (€183,900) was a “fair” one, and is now planning to look elsewhere for a manager to replace the sacked Alain Perrin.
When questioned upon his arrival at Fratton Park as to whether he would approach Saints again, Mandaric told Sky Sports News: “No, I don’t think so. Not at this time. We are charging now towards other candidates.
“I still expect this week to name a new manager. I am very optimistic.”
Saints officials remain wary, however, that Mandaric is merely pressuring them into accepting a compensation figure lower than the £220,000 (€323,700) remaining on Redknapp’s contract now his position at St Mary’s has become untenable.
