Bristol City appointed Michael Skubala in May after holding talks with John Mousinho’s agent

Pompey rivals Bristol City will afford Michael Skubala time to turn the Robins’ fortunes around.

Chief executive Charlie Boss has confirmed the 44-year-old will be given the opportunity to rectify a disappointing first three months of the season that has seen the Ashton Gate side lose seven of their 15 Championship fixtures.

Their latest defeat was a 5-0 home drubbing at the hands of Norwich on Saturday, which leaves City 17th in the table.

That was the club’s second consecutive loss at Ashton Gate and their sixth home defeat in the league, which prompted ‘a lot of tough and honest conversations’ in the days that followed.

Following those discussions, though, Boss revealed Skubala - who was appointed in May after guiding Lincoln to the League One title - would remain in post.

‘The game against Norwich City was a long way short of our standards, and in the days that have followed, there have been a lot of tough and honest conversations around the building,’ said Boss in an interview with the Robins’ media team.

‘Earlier this week, the board met, and we agreed to give Michael Skubala the opportunity to turn our home form around.’

He added: ‘It was hugely disappointing, and a lot of the fans made their feelings known loud and clear at Ashton Gate on Saturday.

‘I want them to know that everyone shares their frustrations, from the owners, to the board, to James Ellis, the players.

‘Every single person at this club feels that frustration. Michael Skubala, more than anyone, knows that we need to improve.

‘We wouldn't have made this decision if we didn't believe that together, we could get through this difficult period.

‘My job as CEO is to look for improvement in every area. That begins and ends with first-team performances.’

Skubala was picked above Pompey boss John Mousinho for the City job that emerged at the end of last season.

Mousinho confirmed in June that the Robins held talks with his agent and that their interest in him was legitimate.

However, he added no official approach was made to the Blues.

At present, Pompey are six places and four points better off than Bristol City in the current Championship standings - despite losing 2-1 to the Robins at Ashton Gate back in August.

Skubala’s next game in charge is against second-placed Middlesbrough on Saturday, November 21, before they welcome Wrexham to the West Country three days later.

For your next Pompey read: Proper backbone shown by Portsmouth defender as he addresses loan club's league struggles