Portsmouth have become the first Premier League club to enter administration and are facing an almost certain relegation to the second division. The club will be docked nine points for failing to pay off debts of about £70 million. Portsmouth were due to face a High Court winding up order on Monday but opted to go into administration to survive. They were already at the bottom of the 20-team Premier League table, eight points adrift of safety. "This is an extremely sad day for everyone connected with the club," Portsmouth chief executive Peter Storrie said in a statement on the club's official website. "It is my intention to work with the administrator to help sell the business and I hope that will be quick as there is already interest in acquiring the club." Storrie also said he would step down from his post once Portsmouth are sold after being subjected to fierce criticism from the club's fans. Portsmouth have had four owners this season but none managed to help the club ease their debts burden.
