The Blues owner believes Redknapp's shrewd judgment in the transfer market is the major reason behind the club's appearance at Wembley.

And Gaydamak also insists the manager will be in place at Fratton Park again next season and beyond.

Gaydamak said: 'Portsmouth were very close to relegation when I took over.

'Mr Redknapp saved the club and then made us an attractive club for players to come to - players of the stature of David James and Sol Campbell.

'It was genius, Harry's genius, to attract those players.

'It meant that Glen Johnson, Jermain Defoe and Lassana Diarra would follow. For these athletes, it is not just about the salary you pay them, but the quality around them.

'Sometimes I go downstairs and sit in his room and there is Mr Redknapp, Tony Adams on the other side and Joe Jordan in the corner. It is like opening a football encyclopaedia.'

Although rumours earlier this week suggested Redknapp is ready to quit his job in the summer, Gaydamak believes the man he calls his general will be there to lead the troops into battle again next season.

Gaydamak added: 'I have spoken with Harry. It has been a most difficult time for him and his family but he is committed and dedicated to Portsmouth. He proved that when he could have gone to Newcastle.

'I thought we might lose him then — one day yes, one day no. It was a roller-coaster, Harry-style! It would have been bad for the club and sad for me.

'I am very fond of him. If we are in there fighting a war, he is my general.'