Portsmouth owner Sacha Gaydamak has labelled Pompey boss Harry Redknapp a 'genius', backing him to take the club forward in the seasons to come.

"Mr Redknapp is the dream manager for this club," he told the Daily Mail. "We could not have a better manager.

"I am convinced Harry is the perfect man for this club and that we can go forward together."

When asked if he could see Portsmouth without Redknapp post the FA Cup final, he replied: "No. I have spoken with Harry.

"It has been a most difficult time for him and his family but he is committed and dedicated to Portsmouth. He proved that when he could have gone to Newcastle.

"Portsmouth were very close to relegation when I took over. Mr Redknapp saved the club and then made us an attractive club for players to come to; players of the stature of David James and Sol Campbell. It was genius, Harry's genius, to attract those players."