Unsworth 'flabbergasted' by Redknapp exit

David Unsworth has expressed his shock at Harry Redknapp’s resignation as Portsmouth manager.

Redknapp, who stood down today, signed the centre-back on a free transfer this summer.

Despite being 12th in the Barclays Premiership and reaching the quarter-finals of the Carling Cup, Redknapp’s position at Fratton Park became uncertain following the appointment of Velimir Zajec as executive director at the club.

Unsworth was sympathetic to Redknapp’s reaction to the change of structure at Pompey.

“I can understand his position, without a shadow of a doubt,” Unsworth said.

“Harry’s a very proud football man and when you look at what he’s achieved and the players he has brought in, what more could Harry Redknapp do for the club?

“It’s a big shock and a big disappointment. I’m flabbergasted.”

Redknapp has forged a reputation for buying players whose careers are flagging and getting the best out of them. Redknapp signed the 31-year-old from Everton and played him regularly this season.

“It’s a very sad day for the club,” Unsworth added. “Harry was a big influence on me coming to the club in the first place.

“I was speaking to Jim Smith yesterday at length and there was laughing and jovial stuff. Nothing was said but obviously speculation was rife.

“Portsmouth are losing two fantastic men.”

Zajec will take control of Pompey’s first team for their fixture against Bolton this weekend – and he is the bookmakers’ favourite to take over permanently.

“It’s not ideal,” Unsworth admitted.

“Harry’s done a phenomenal job with Jim Smith, and you wonder what more they could do. we’ve got a great chance of getting through to the semi-final of the Carling Cup. I honestly don’t know what more he could achieve at the club.”