Adams made errors, says Claridge

Adams won only two of 16 Premier League games he was in charge

Former player-manager Steve Claridge has said Tony Adams made mistakes as Portsmouth boss.

But Claridge told BBC Radio Solent Adams always had a tough act to follow in Harry Redknapp.

He said: "He [Adams] made mistakes and he'll be the first to admit that but there are other things that have come into the equation as well.

"He knew it was going to be a tough job. He had a tough time and didn't have his share of luck."

He added: "You have to question the balance and mix of the side on occasions. There were times when you thought 'maybe he hasn't quite got this one right'.

Claridge had two spells at the club between 1998 and 2001 separated by five months at Wolves. In his second spell he took over as player-manager when Tony Pulis left the club.

With owner Sacha Gaydamak looking to sell the club, Claridge, 42, admitted Adams always faced a difficult task after taking charge.

He added: "He's a victim of many different circumstances that have ultimately resulted in his sacking.

"But he's had a tough time regarding injuries and players leaving."