Man United haven’t lost at Aston Villa since 1999 so can they continue their title quest there on Wednesday? Click here for all the best odds.

Having failed to reach agreement with Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs over a £7.5 million debt, Portsmouth head to the High Court today and will attempt to secure an adjournment in hearing their appeal against a winding-up petition.

Talks broke down over a deal to pay a portion of the money back and reschedule further debt, meaning the matter goes to court.

According to reports the Inland Revenue have rejected a cash offer from Portsmouth to settle the matter before the High Court hearing.

The Premier League club are expected to ask for an extra 28 days to put together their case.

Should they fail in their attempt for an extension, Pompey could face going into administration.

Portsmouth manager Avram Grant has pleaded for the club’s future ahead of today’s winding-up order

“I ask the court to think not about the situation they see on the papers, football is not just papers,” said Grant.

“This business belongs to the fans, they love this club.

”It’s not a clear, normal business. It’s not like an apartment that you buy without feelings. Here there are feelings, of players, fans, and also mine. The court needs to think it [also] belongs to 250,000 people. I think the club needs to stay alive – this is even more important than football.”

Portsmouth’s financial problems have meant their players have been paid late on four occasions this season.

The club is currently under the control of a fourth new owner this season in Balram Chainrai, but the Hong Kong businessman is determined to sell the club as soon as possible.

Speaking in the club’s programme notes ahead of the Sunderland game, Portsmouth chief executive Peter Storrie claimed there are a number of parties interested in gaining control at Fratton Park.

“I already have more than one interested party and am hopeful that we can finally find owners who have the best interests of everyone at the club at heart in order to move us forward,” said Storrie.

Man United haven’t lost at Aston Villa since 1999 so can they continue their title quest there on Wednesday? Click here for all the best odds.

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