Too many cooks will help Cookie

Last updated : 06 April 2005 By Mo Sultan

Pompey may be set to sink like a stone, now that "relegation expert" David Pleat is about to be given the task of saving Portsmouth from relegation.

Gordon Strachan was the fans' favourite to take charge, but Pleat will be employed in an advisory role until the end of the season.

As caretaker boss at Spurs, Pleat's record was quite poor.

Pompey chairman Milan Mandaric may end up regretting being such a hands-on supremo.

Like Al Fayed at Fulham, Mandaric has injected millions into the Fratton Park club.

But Portsmouth's instability can be regarded as a bonus for Fulham, who must fancy their chances of finishing above their less-stable relegation rivals.

Alain Perrin will be the new first team boss once he finalises his 2-year-deal, and while he settles Pleat will offer expert guidance.

Pleat reportedly undermined both Hoddle and Graham while at Spurs, and it could be a case of too many cooks at Pompey - what with Joe Jordan and Velimir Zajec also employed in managerial roles.

Meanwhile, Chris "Cookie" Coleman seems to already have the recipe for success, thanks to Al Fayed's unequivocal backing.