Source: Liverpool_Echo
BARRY HORNE: Everton FC boss David Moyes was right to be sceptical about Portsmouth
ALTHOUGH David Moyes' comments regarding Portsmouth's intention to apply for a place in Europe next year were made when Everton still had an outside chance of clinching seventh spot, they were clearly not made from a selfish point of view.[LNB]His comments were considered and made in a more general context.[LNB]Portsmouth failed to make an application in the allotted time, which is sufficient reason to rule them out.[LNB]With all the problems the FA have had this season, the last thing they would surely want to do is to invite more criticism of being weak and failing to show strong leadership of clubs in administration.[LNB]If they were to recommend to UEFA that a club which has been so patently mismanaged should represent English football, they would be inviting ridicule.[LNB]Andrew Andronikou, the club administrator, has a duty to do the best he can for the club and he seems like a man who knows what he is doing.[LNB]But at the moment he can't even guaran- tee that Portsmouth will be in a position to take their place in any competition next year, let alone one of foot- ball's elite competitions.[LNB]On the subject of Portsmouth, much has been spoken about their long suffering fans.[LNB]I played for the club in the late 80s in the old First Division and there's no doubt they are a fantastic group of supporters.[LNB]But while they are suffering, one player seems likely to suffer more than anyone as a result of the club's plight.[LNB]Aroune Dindane is unlikely to be allowed to play in the FA Cup final because one more appearance would trigger a payment to his parent club Lens.[LNB]Under the circumstances Lens have got absolutely no chance of getting any money from Portsmouth anyway, yet are still refusing to waive the appearance payment. That is a disgraceful attitude.
