I fancy a Berger

The former Liverpool winger is believed to be unsettled at Fratton Park following the departures of Harry Redknapp, Jim Smith and Kevin Bond and is out of contract in the summer.

Saints boss Redknapp has played down rumours that the Czech could be heading to St Mary's, and is sure Pompey will offer the 31-year-old a new deal when his current deal expires.

But Berger is said to be keen on a move to St Mary's, despite featuring in every game since Redknapp's exit, except the clash against Chelsea three days ago, when he was rested.

And Pompey may decide it is worth cashing in on the gifted left winger in the knowledge he could leave for nothing in six months.

Like Redknapp, Berger is based in Poole and has been a revelation since the Saints boss made him one of his first signings as Pompey manager 18 months ago, on a free from Liverpool.

Yesterday, Redknapp spoke of his admiration for arguably Pompey's most technically gifted player.

He said: "Patrik's a terrific player - I love him as a player and a fella, he's great. But I haven't made any enquiries about him. He's out of contract in the summer but I'm sure they'll offer him new terms.

"They wouldn't let Patrik go."

Berger spent seven injury-blighted seasons at Anfield after his stunning performances for the Czech Republic during Euro 96, which prompted a £3.25m move from Borussia Dortmund.

He missed the last four months of last season with a serious knee injury but has been outstanding this term, playing in all but two of Pompey's 20 Premiership games and scoring three goal-of-the-season contenders in the process.

Redknapp, meanwhile, has insisted he cannot afford the wages of Swiss centre back Stephane Henchoz and Croatian midfielder Igor Biscan after being linked with the Liverpool duo.

Hearts and Scotland defender Andrew Webster, 22, has also been linked with a move to Saints.

The 12-cap centre-back was closely tracked by Steve Wigley but is also thought to interest Redknapp.