Football mourns death of former Portsmouth boss and ex-Southampton coach John Mortimore

A centre-half with Chelsea, who made 279 appearances for the club, Mortimore entered coaching following retirement.

He spent almost 16 months as Pompey boss after becoming new chairman John Deacon’s first managerial appointment in May 1973.

Mortimore was recruited from Greek side Ethnikos Piraeus, replacing Ron Tindall at Fratton Park. However, it proved to be an unsuccessful stint

After finishing 15th in Division Two in 1973-74, he was dismissed in September 1974 following one win from the Blues’ opening four fixtures.

Of his 55 matches in charge, Mortimore won 19, and was replaced by Motherwell boss and former Liverpool striker Ian St John.

Mortimore would go on to manage Benfica twice, winning the league on each occasion.

He also served south-coast neighbours Southampton with distinction, working as a coach, assistant manager, chief scout and, most recently, president.

Mortimore died on January 26.

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