Portsmouth administrator will not sell players before FA Cup semi

Portsmouth administrator Andrew Andronikou says selling players remains an option.

Some members of manager Avram Grant's backroom staff were included in a recent staff cull but players cannot be made redundant due to protection afforded to them by the Professional Footballers' Association.

The cancellation of loan agreements to save on wages is a consideration, though, with Pompey having six temporary signings on their books.

"Selling players is an option but first I need to broach the subject with the Premier League," said Andronikou. "I need their concession.

"As an alternative from looking at the Premier League advancing TV money, I suggested to them to possibly open the window to allow me to sell two players on a loan-back.

"It's one of those subjects we need to discuss further with the Premier League.

"However, I will not be looking to sell players before the semi-final and I will not be looking to cancel loan agreements before the semi-final.

"The minute I start tinkering with the football part it will be a big mistake. I can promise I will leave that until after the semi-final."

He added: "The players are very much protected by the PFA and unfortunately I am unable to make any cuts in the playing staff.

"They are very much the shop window of the club so instead I hope they can attract a buyer to this club."