Source: SKY_Sports
Hart prepared to step back
Paul Hart insists he has every intention of resuming his duties with Portsmouth's academy next season.
The experienced coach was handed the first team reins at Fratton Park in February following the dismissal of Tony Adams, and has helped guide the club towards Premier League safety.
Alongside his assistant Brian Kidd, results and performances have gradually improved over the course of his tenure and there appears to be little danger of the club being dragged back into the basement battle.
His instant success has led to calls for him to offered the senior post on a full-time basis, but Hart is adamant that he 'won't put any pressure on anyone at this club' to give him the job.
He said: "Right now I'm still planning on going back to the youth development role I have here because I am on contract for that. I have counted it a privilege, though, to be appointed to the first team but I won't say anything more until the end of season when we are safe.
"I've enjoyed the job because of the players' response which always makes a tough challenge more palatable.
"I certainly do feel a weight of responsibility. If we stay up, as I believe we will, there'll be more than an element of relief as well as pride."
Focus
While remaining optimistic as to Portsmouth's chances of beating the drop, Hart admits he will be unable to rest easy until safety is mathematically secured.
"I think we need two or three points," he said.
"After the weekend (against Blackburn) one may do it, I think the weekend will tell us more.
"I think we have to go into our game thinking that we are not safe and we need not to get beat and hopefully get three points."
