Mandaric backs Grant to steer Pompey clear of drop

FORMER Chelsea manager Avram Grant is being backed to lift Portsmouth up the table after it was yesterday confirmed he will succeed Paul Hart at Fratton Park.

Hart was sacked on Tuesday with the club rooted to the foot of the Barclays Premier League with only seven points from 13 games.

Grant will take charge for the first time tomorrow for the home game against Manchester United.