Adams 'surprised' at sacking

Tony Adams was "surprised" to be sacked as Portsmouth manager today after just three months in charge.

Portsmouth have won only two of their 16 Premier League matches since Adams, 42, took over after Harry Redknapp's move to Tottenham.

However, the former Arsenal captain said: "I'm a little bit surprised. Results have not been good but we're not getting done sixes and fours and performances on the whole have 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."

This was Adams's first spell as boss since he resigned from Wycombe five years ago but he insisted: "What has happened has 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."

Owner Alexandre Gaydamak ran out of patience after Portsmouth lost 3-2 to Liverpool on Saturday despite leading 2-1 with just five minutes to go. The defeat leaves Pompey just one point above the relegation zone, which is a huge worry for Gaydamak, who is trying to sell the club.