Pompey to axe Greek pair

Giannis Skopelitis and Kostas Chalkias are tipped to leave Portsmouth in the New Year.

Skopelitis and Chalkias have failed to impress since moving to Fratton Park during the January transfer window at the start of 2005.

Midfielder Skopelitis is currently on loan from Egaleo, but has made just four appearances for Pompey this season.

Portsmouth chairman Milan Mandaric admits the 27-year-old has struggled to adjust to the demands of The Premiership and is ready to send him back to Egaleo.

"Skopelitis is on loan to Portsmouth from Egaleo," commented Mandaric.

"He is a good player and a good person, but he hasn't adapted to the Premier League. It's very possible he will go back to Greece."

Experienced goalkeeper Chalkias arrived on the South Coast from Panathinaikos at the same time as his compatriot.

Chalkias was signed on the recommendation of the club's former director of football Velimir Zajec, but has not played this season.

Mandaric feels Zajec made an error of judgement in suggesting Pompey land the 31-year-old and he is now trying to find a buyer for Chalkias.

He added: "His acquisition was a big mistake by Velimir Zajec.

"We are really disappointed with his performances and we are looking for a club to sell him to."