Chris Kamara's first season in professional football may have ended in relegation with Portsmouth, but says he has nothing but happy memories of his time on the south coast.

The former Bradford City manager started his career at the tender age of 16 alongside George Graham in what turned out to be a less than prolific Pompey strikeforce in the 1975-76 season.

Kamara was given his chance by then manager Ian St John and went on to score four goals in 21 games while Graham chimed in with just two from 39 appearances as Pompey suffered the ignominy of finishing bottom of the old Second Division.

Despite this, Kamara insists it was a happy time in his life. "It was the club where I got my first chance and I went on to stay for three seasons.

"I had been scoring a lot of goals in the youth team as an attacking midfielder so Ian St John decided to pair me with George. Needless to say I was the one that did all the running while George just sat and did nothing. I never tire of reminding him of that!

"I played up front for most of the season and enjoyed it. I will always be grateful to Ian St John for giving me that chance although I was quite glad to be moved back into midfield."

Kamara finished his playing career at Bradford City under Lennie Lawrence before enjoying one of the proudest moments of his career in the game when, as manager, he led the Bantams to promotion via the play-offs in 1996.

And when asked who will win tomorrow's game between two of his former clubs, he replied: "Bradford, without a doubt despite Portsmouth having some players who will cause problems for Bradford.

"Just 18 months ago they were a very good team who weren't far away from the play-offs in the same season we were fighting relegation at City.

"But the fact is they are short on confidence and Bradford should win quite comfortably.

"It saddens me to see what is happening at Portsmouth with all the money worries.

"They are a great club who have fallen on hard times. That is why I believe Alan Ball has done a fantastic job in a dignified manner this season.

"I think they are safe from relegation. It is good to see that Alan Knight is still playing for Pompey. I remember sharing a house with Alan when he was only about 14.

"It is amazing to think how despite me retiring a while ago, there are still a lot of players from those days still going strong.

"Steve Claridge is another I have played alongside who is now with Portsmouth."

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