Portsmouth (1/14 to be relegated on outright coupon) fans worried about their club’s future have been given some reassurances by the club’s executive director, including the fact they will not face a 10 point deduction for entering administration.

Mark Jacob has told BBC Radio 5 Live’s Sportsweek programme that there are “two or three” groups interested in taking over the south coast club and things could move forward at Fratton Park “very soon”.

On the pitch, Portsmouth are struggling at the bottom of the Premier League and are six points of nearest rivals Wolves (10/11 to be relegated on outright coupon) and seven points short of safety.

A 10 point penalty for the club for entering administration would make relegation look a certainty, however Mr Jacob has moved to quash fears of this happening.

The club is lodging an appeal about a winding up order issued on a £7.5 million VAT bill, he stated.

“We’re confident that if the appeal goes in our favour then that will delay matters,” said Mr Jacob.

“I’m confident the club will not go into administration and I urge Portsmouth supporters to keep the faith.”

Portsmouth face 13th-placed Sunderland (8/1 for relegation on outright coupon) at Fratton Park on Tuesday night before playing local rivals Southampton in the FA Cup (Pompey 33/1 to win competition on coupon) next weekend.