A touching farewell

So loveable Avram Grant has decided he can’t go on at relegated Portsmouth and has decided to quit via an open letter to the supporters on the club’s website.

We’re a cynical bunch here at Sporting Fare but we’re willing to give Avram the benefit of the doubt when he says how much he loves Portsmouth. He’s put up with a lot since taking over as manager and has always acted with dignity. Portsmouth are surely going to miss him.

West Ham are going to love him. That’s where all the smart money is going on his next position. Of course, he’ll need to win games at the Boleyn – that’s what matters most to the ‘Appy ‘Ammers. But let’s leave the future for now and bask in the love Grant has expressed in his letter. This is how to quit your job, in case anyone was struggling with how to go about it.

This was one of the most difficult decisions I’ve had to take in my football career.

After a lot of soul searching and under the circumstances I’m taking a different direction.

It’s been both a difficult and complex year for us at the club, but at the same time, it’s been a wonderful and uplifting professional and personal experience.

I have been inundated with letters and emails from fans. Many have brought tears to my eyes and take it from me; it takes a lot to do that.

I will never forget you, the loyal fans of Pompey who, without a doubt, helped me protect the team under such complex circumstances. There are very few teams in the world that have fans as passionate and devoted as you are.

Seeing you all so proud with your heads held up high is the best reward I can receive.

It has been a great experience to be part of one of the most wonderful occurrences that has happened in the history of British football and also shows that even in the most desperate times, loyalty, devotion, professionalism and passion can be demonstrated.

I wish you all the possible success which you genuinely deserve.

Portsmouth has given me a feeling of home away from home. I might be leaving Portsmouth physically, but you cannot take Portsmouth away from me and my heart.

I have informed Andrew the administrator that if and when the need arises, I will be at his disposal to assist in any way I possibly can.

At this point I would like to mention the good job the administrator is doing, under very difficult circumstances after he received the club from Mr. Chainrai and Mr. Levy which they had saved from liquidation. Thank you for that.

I can never fully repay the faith and backing I got from the fans, players and staff who gave a hundred per cent. I truly thank you all for granting me the opportunity and the privilege to be part of your special city and unique club.

We rather enjoyed ‘Andrew the administrator’ – sounds like a character from Thomas the Tank Engine! Joking aside though, we’re glad that Grant appears to be staying in the Premier League and we’re impressed by ‘the man who followed Mourinho’. Good luck to Portsmouth next season as well.