Adams 'surprised' by sacking

Tony Adams has revealed he was "surprised" to be sacked as manager of Portsmouth.

The former England and Arsenal defender lost his job in the wake of the weekend defeat to Liverpool, which left Portsmouth with just two points from nine matches and on the verge of falling into the Premier League relegation zone.

Adams had wanted longer to build his team, having only taken charge at Fratton Park in October following Harry Redknapp's resignation.

He told BBC Radio Solent: "I am a little bit surprised but results haven't been good.

"I haven't had a lot of time and I certainly haven't had the financial backing. We've had a few injuries as well and that's tough to take."

Portsmouth this morning confirmed the departure of Adams "with immediate effect", revealing the decision was made by the board.

The struggling club lost 3-2 to Liverpool on Saturday after conceding two late goals, and first-team coach John Metgod was also dismissed today.

The club's director of youth operations, former Nottingham Forest boss Paul Hart, has been installed as caretaker manager.

Adams plans to return to management but will not rush into taking his next job.

He had a year in charge of Wycombe which ended in November 2004, and also had coaching spells in Holland at Feyenoord and Utrecht.

When the next job offer comes up, Adams intends to do his homework on the club involved before committing to anything.

He told BBC Radio Solent: "It's not turned me off management that's for sure.

"I've just got to make sure I get all the parameters right before I walk into the next one.

"I can't wait to get back in and have another bash. But I won't be impulsive, I've got to learn from that and make sure I get things right."