Retiring Pompey chairman Iain McInnes has admitted he thinks Paul Cook felt the weight of expectation fron Pompey fans at times - but is confident it's something Kenny Jackett can handle.

McInnes says Cook found it 'extraordinarily difficult' in mid-season when fans were criticising Cook and the team. And he thinks the fact Jackett has managed clubs with big and demanding fan bases must count in his favour.

McInnes told The News: 'I don’t believe expectations will faze Kenny. I think Paul still feels a little sensitive about the very significant level of pressure from a club which regards itself as a big club.

'Looking at Kenny, he’s experienced that big time at Wolves and they are probably similar in comparison to Pompey from an historical point of view. Meanwhile, Millwall have the raw edge of fans. Combine those experiences and it will at least guard against the thing Paul found a little complicated and difficult to deal with,

‘For me, that was heavy as a pointer towards Kenny being the right guy.'

McInnes told the paper: 'There was a period of time around January which it was extraordinarily difficult for Paul. He wears his heart on his sleeve, is a strong robust character and I got to know him very well. But for all his bluster and sharp wit and a very open approach to be admired, he was not as confident as he appeared to be.

‘I think the criticism which came his way — rightly or wrongly — really hit him hard. Quite a lot of work went in from me to make him feel he was more wanted than the minority said he was. And look where he took us.'

Pompey's League One 2017-18 fixtures are out next week, with the first round of the League Cup being drawn later this week.

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