David Gold does not believe he or co-owner David Sullivan have undermined Gianfranco Zola since taking charge in January

David Gold does not believe he or co-owner David Sullivan have undermined Gianfranco Zola since taking charge in January.

The outspoken duo have taken flack for their hands-on approach, but the 73-year-old has defended their stance.

"I don't think David Sullivan set out to undermine Franco. I've known him for a long time and I know that it's (the e-mail to fans) not pre-meditated," Gold said.

"They are his views clearly and we are all entitled to our views. Fans do, they get on their twitters or whatever they are called, they are entitled to. We are all entitled to our opinions and they are all different.

"I would like to think that he (Zola) would say to you, that I show the manager and the management team respect. They are there to do the job and I support them in any way I can."

Gold knows the situation is desperate with the club level on points with third-bottom Hull, but remains optimistic.

"We are on the brink, it is undeniable, here we are, level on points with our competitor, which is predominately Hull and they have a game in hand," he said.

"But who would you rather be, Portsmouth? I don't think so. We are very down and feeling sorry for ourselves, but I'd rather be us."

By Matt Diner