MARTIN MURPHY, a man whose printing company lost thousands of pounds when Portsmouth went into administration almost two years ago, has been named as the club's new managing director.

Murphy is the owner of club sponsor, Bishop's Printers, which is based just half-a-mile from Fratton Park.

The 55-year-old, who has lived in the area for more than 30 years, was delighted to be offered the chance to help steer his club towards the Holy Grail of the Premiership.

He explained: "It is a privilege to work alongside a man who is as committed as Milan Mandaric. We share the same goals for Portsmouth Football Club - the Premiership and a new stadium.

"We are all committed to giving our full support to Steve Claridge in his efforts to move the club forward as a force in Division 1."

Murphy's company, who produce the match day programme, were hit hard two years ago when the cash-strapped club, with Martin Gregory at the helm, was forced to go into administration.

His appointment comes after last week's resignation of chief executive, Barrie Pierpoint, along with sales and marketing manager, Richard Hughes.

Director Paul Mitchell, who took up the position of chief executive on a temporary basis, said: "I was only too happy to help the club out and am delighted to be able to hand over the reins to a man of Martin's calibre."

Mandaric confirmed he may bring in more local recruits to capitalise on the club's potential. He recently stated that it was essential the club had a local presence on the board, "somebody who is a shrewd business operator with a passion for football and Pompey".

The US-based chairman said: "It is very pleasing for me to be able to bring in somebody well respected in the local business community and who has also supported the club for a long time."