Portsmouth’s Championship rivals close in on new boss as managerial market takes fresh twist

John Mousinho’s Fratton Park future has been under the microscope in recent weeks following intense links with Bristol City.

The head coach had been touted with a switch to the Robin s, who remain on the lookout for Gerhard Struber’s permanent successor.

Although the Blues boss was in the frame for the Ashton Gate hot-seat, a move to BS3 now appears highly unlikely for the in-demand 40-year-old, with Bournemouth’s Tommy Elphick and Michael Skubala now clear favourites.

While Mousinho’s future remains uncertain, one Championship managerial position will soon become occupied.

Watford close in on new head coach

Watford are poised to announce Niels Frederiksen as Edward Still’s Vicarage Road successor, according to a fresh report by Sky Sports’ Anthony Joseph.

It has been stated the 55-year-old has been given the green light to speak with the Hornets, who are on the search for their fourth boss in 12 months.

The report suggests Pompey’s Championship rivals are in advanced talks with the Dane, who has led Lech Poznan to back-to-back Polish titles.

News of the move comes after Polish media revealed earlier this week that Frederiksen topped Watford’s managerial shopping list after his recent success at the Stadion Poznan.

The former Brondby man has enjoyed an outstanding two-year stay with Poznan guiding the club to the Europa Conference League, but is out of contract next month.

Watford are, of course, looking for their 24th manager under Gino Pozzo’s 14-year ownership following Still’s sacking at the start of the month.

The 35-year-old, who lasted less than four months with the Hornets, was dismissed just 24 hours after their 4-0 defeat to champions Coventry City on the final day.

Still, brother of ex-Southampton boss Will, won just three of his 15 matches in charge at Vicarage Road before his prompt departure.

Watford ended the Championship campaign two points above the Blues in 16th after a disappointing run-in saw them plummet down the standings.

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John Mousinho latest

Mousinho’s future has been under the spotlight after news of interest from Bristol City emerged in the final week of the season.

The Blues boss was named as a ‘leading contender’ as he was installed as the early bookmakers favourite to succeed Struber at Ashton Gate.

That picture has swiftly changed, however, with the Robins now targeting Andoni Iraola’s number two Elphick, along with Lincoln City head coach Skubala.

The News understands Pompey have still received no approach for the in-demand Mousinho, who is also on the radar of an unnamed Championship club.

Mark Robins is reportedly under pressure at Stoke City, while Burnley and Blackburn Rovers are also on the hunt for a new manager.

It is still business as usual behind the scenes at Fratton Park as the Blues continue their preparations for their third-successive second-tier campaign.

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