Portsmouth have denied being formally served with a winding-up petition in a statement released by the club.

The club have also claimed they are surprised by the actions of Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs over the petition which is in respect of "VAT, PAYE and National Insurance contributions which either have been, or are about to be paid, or are disputed".

The club also claim they are disputing the amount of VAT outstanding and expect the HMRC to withdraw their demands.

The club has endured a miserable season on and off the field this term, sitting rock bottom of the table and having a transfer embargo placed on it due to financial problems.

Players and staff have seen their wages delayed twice already this year as Pompey look to pay off the debts hanging over the club.

Portsmouth are believed to owe over €11 million in fees to other English clubs and it has been suggested they will have to sell more of their stars to pay off the debt.

Today's news, whether official or not, will raise doubts over the long-term future of the club.