Zajec set to stay in charge

Portsmouth boss Velimir Zajec looks set to stay in the job for the rest of the season.

He reluctantly took on the task following Harry Redknapp’s departure in November, having been initially appointed as executive director.

The 48-year-old former Yugoslavia captain was named manager until the end of the season, with Joe Jordan working alongside him as head coach.

Zajec accepted the job on the condition that chairman Milan Mandaric would actively seek candidates willing to be manager on a long-term basis.

Although Zajec is happy to stay at the club, he wants to do so on a behind-the-scenes basis, in the role to which he was originally assigned.

Portsmouth claim to have a shortlist of suitable managers but they appear unlikely to name Redknapp’s full-time successor in the near future.

Zajec expects to have a major say in the appointment of the next manager.

A club spokesman today said: “I don’t think you will be hearing any announcements very soon.”

Portsmouth collected their first point for five games last Saturday, drawing 1-1 at home to Newcastle, but they must continue to pick up results between now and the end of the season to protect their top-flight status.

Their next fixture is against Fulham on Saturday week.

It will come too soon for French striker Vincent Pericard, but Portsmouth have been encouraged by his return to full training after thigh and cruciate knee ligament injuries which have kept him out since December 2003.

Even if time is against him during the current campaign, Pericard is determined to be back in the first-team picture for the start of next season.

The former France Under-21 international said: “I’m in my fifth month of rehabilitation from the knee injury and now it’s time to start training with the youth and reserve teams. The next step for me is to be training with the first team every day and not feeling any pain when there is contact. I hope for that to come next month.”

Pericard has received strong support from Zajec, who has convinced the 22-year-old there is a future for him at Fratton Park.

The former Juventus player said: “I’ve learnt to be strong and not give up. They are qualities I have picked up from this experience and it has improved me. It will make me a better player when I play again.”