23 Apr 2010Portsmouth keeper slates Europa League decision

Football Clubs News | Football Referees, Players, Managers and Media

Portsmouth goalkeeper David James has expressed his disappointment with the FA and English Premier League's joint decision to prevent the club competing in next season's UEFA Europa League.

The Fratton Park side would have been eligible for the competition after qualifying for next month's FA Cup final, but after a season of strife and reported debts of £119 million, the authorities have put the brakes on their participation.

Speaking to the Daily Mirror, James described the ruling as "very wrong", adding: "Everything that I have signed as a player has been done in good faith."

James, 39, said taking on European opponents would have been "a fairytale" and suggested the side's FA Cup exploits should have earned them the right to compete in the continental competition.

Administrator Andrew Andronikou echoed James' sentiments, claiming it is "unfair" that Portsmouth supporters should be denied the chance of a European cup run. He insisted the south coast team will "explore every avenue" in the hope the decision will be overturned.

Written by Paul Thompson

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