Mandaric still hopeful on Redknapp return

Portsmouth chairman Milan Mandaric is hopeful Harry Redknapp will return to the club as manager.

The Fratton Park chief has pleaded for patience while he attempts to find a way to bring Redknapp – who is still technically manager of Southampton – back to Pompey.

The south-coast rivals have been caught up in a public row over compensation for Redknapp, who walked out on the St Mary’s club at the weekend because he wanted to return to his old club.

Asked by Sky Sports if he hoped Redknapp would take over as Pompey boss for a second time, Mandaric said: “I hope he does but I would like everyone to be patient.

“I do not know [if it will happen] but we will find out. I am working on it. My feeling is to do what is best for the club. I am working for club, not for Milan, nor Harry, but the club.”

When pressed if there could be a conclusion today with a press conference to announce the 58-year-old’s return, Mandaric added: “Maybe later on, yes.”