Portsmouth launch Europa League appeal after Cup heroics

Apr 12, 2010, 15:00 GMT

London ­ Portsmouth revealed on Monday that they will ask the Football Association if they can compete in next seasons Europa League after reaching the FA Cup final.

With Chelsea already assured of a place in the Champions League next season, Portsmouth would usually be guaranteed their spot in the Europa League, whether they win or lose in next months final.

But with the club in administration, Portsmouth failed to apply for a UEFA licence before the March deadline.

'It will be an uphill struggle in terms of making the appeal but nonetheless we will try,' said administrator Andrew Andronikou.

Andronikou also confirmed they would ask Lens if they will permit forward Aruna Dindane to play in the final without triggering a 4- million-pound (6.2-million-dollar) payment that should become due with his 22nd appearance for the club.

'Under his contract there was bullet payment after his 22nd appearance, he has played 21 games and we are looking to have a meeting with Lens to negotiate,' Andronikou said.

'I'm sure they will see it is in the interest of the club, themselves and the player for there to be a compromise.'