The former Leeds, AC Milan and Manchester United striker is adamant he is "quite happy trying to get into Europe with Pompey" as his team try to cement sixth place in the Premier League tomorrow by stretching their unbeaten run to 11 matches at rivals Aston Villa.

Jordan's quietly effective work alongside manager Harry Redknapp and assistant manager Tony Adams has been noted north of the border where he was awarded 52 caps during his playing days.

He said: "As a proud Scot I'm naturally interested in what is going to happen next but so long as it is a Scotsman appointed I'm not too concerned.

"I've not been approached but I would like to think there are sufficient Scottish-born candidates for the job."

Scotland, like England, failed to qualify for the Euro 2008 finals - although much more heroically - but Jordan is convinced Pompey are capable of fulfilling their own European ambitions.

And he picks out England's nemesis Niko Kranjcar as a prime reason for his confidence.

The Croat, who struck his country's first goal in England's humiliating and decisive defeat at Wembley just 17 days ago, has emerged as a key man for Pompey after a first season struggling to settle in.

Jordan said: "Niko has adapted to English football now. There was never a question about his ability but it has taken time and has not been easy. He is a lot fitter and much more aware of what is required.

"Even though we did well last season, the squad is stronger now. It shows, particularly in our away performances even though we've had some not-so-good results at home.

"There is a certain degree of maturity there now and it was well illustrated in the 4-1 win at Newcastle, the way we kept the ball in the second half after going three goals ahead very early in the game.

"We've still got difficult places to go and Villa will be tough but six away wins in a row is very good and after Christmas and the new year period we should be able to offer a good argument for getting into the UEFA Cup."

Kranjcar, 23, has been a regular in the side since recovering from a broken foot in September and has built a reputation for spectacular finishing with three goals in 11 starts.

His Wembley opener, however, was assisted by a bad bounce off the greasy surface which confounded rookie England keeper Scott Carson - whom he faces again tomorrow.

Kranjcar said: "Hopefully, I won't need any help if I try a shot tomorrow but I don't think he (Carson) will be particularly looking out for me because of the England match.

"He's a professional international goalkeeper and will focus on his job - just as I will. After all it is Villa v Portsmouth, not me versus Carson."

Pompey are again likely to be without midfielder Sean Davis through a hamstring injury, giving Pedro Mendes another chance to re-establish himself.

Striker Kanu has been through a spell of intensive training to reach peak fitness after making his first appearance for three weeks - as a substitute - against Everton last Saturday.