Pompey boss Grant eyes new faces

Avram Grant is hoping Portsmouth's transfer embargo will soon be lifted so he can set about strengthening his struggling squad.

Pompey continue to sit rock-bottom in the Premier League table and are running out of time in their efforts to claw their way to safety.

It has become painfully obvious that fresh faces are needed to help bring added quality and confidence to a deflated side.

However, the ongoing financial turmoil at Fratton Park continues to undermine their plans on the field. The very existence of the club remains in doubt, with the payment of player salaries having been delayed three times already this season. Pompey are also currently barred from bringing in any new signings, a situation which is further hindering their progress.

Grant, though, is optimistic that he will be given the green light to dip into the January transfer window once the club's owners have resolved matters off the pitch.

"January is very important. It's only January when we can bring in players," said the Israeli tactician in the Daily Star. "I am not a fan of bringing in players in January, but we do need to make the team stronger.

"The players are positive, though I don't think happy is the right word for the situation.

"But they are positive and I respect their spirit very much. Even in this situation, they are trying to do their best."

Grant has also sought to play down concerns that Pompey could struggle to survive another month in their current state. He added: "Nobody wants the club to be in a bad position. It's a wonderful club. I love it and it can be one of the best in England.

"We're trying to do it, but that is for the long term. In the short term we will try to fix our problems.

"I have two choices. Either I give up, be sad and come to you with a long face. Or I try to do my best and find solutions for any situation."