David James plans to replace Avram Grant but Portsmouth play down England keeper as new boss

21 May 2010 13:05
Portsmouth's administrator has revealed David James has offered himself as a candidate for a management role at the club following Avram Grant's departure.   [LNB]Administrator Andrew Andronikou does not expect England goalkeeper James to become the club's new boss but suggests the 39-year-old could have a role to play in deciding who is installed.  [LNB]Andronikou told BBC Radio Solent: 'David has expressed an interest in taking the next stage of his career into management.   [LNB]Safe hands: David James could step up to the hot seat at Portsmouth[LNB]'Albeit we believe it has come a bit too early to appoint him as manager.'[LNB]Andronikou added: 'I believe he will have an input into the decision going forward.   [LNB]'I think everyone has an input into what is going to happen, but the David James question is very much core to our decision-making.'[LNB][LNB] Gone: Avram Grant[LNB]Andronikou has also given hints that James could be appointed in a player-coach role. James has no plans to retire yet but could be lured by the offer to combine the jobs. [LNB]He said: 'I would certainly not rule David James out of the reckoning. He obviously wants to go into management. [LNB]'Whether or not it is too early for him I don't know but he is oneof the most articulate guys I know. I am sure he will do a good job andI will be speaking to him about it.'[LNB]James reaches the end of his Portsmouth contract this summer and the club are keen to keep him on for next season, following relegation to the Coca-Cola Championship. [LNB]He has been offered a new deal but is currently preparing for the World Cup with England, having been selected as one of Fabio Capello's three goalkeepers in the 30-man provisional squad.  [LNB] Grant announced his resignation last night, and has been hotly tipped to take over at West Ham.[LNB] West Ham close in on Grant... but delay naming new boss until next weekGrant resigns from Portsmouth as West Ham switch draws closerAvram Grant resigns: Read his letter to Portsmouth fans in full PORTSMOUTH FC

Source: Daily_Mail