David James has compared new Portsmouth boss Avram Grant to ‘Yoda’ and the keeper has insisted the former Chelsea chief has what it takes to guide the club to safety in the second half of the season. Grant  has now been confirmed as the new Pompey chief following Paul Hart’s exit earlier this week and he will take charge of the club for the first time when champions Manchester United visit Fratton Park on Saturday. James, who is currently out injured with a calf problem, says Grant’s appointment is good for the club and he has backed him to lead them out of the relegation mire. He told The Sun: “He’s like Yoda. His pearls of wisdom seem to be far-reaching and he speaks a lot of sense. “He is just what we need and I’m sure he can get us out of trouble. He’s very different and profound which appeals to me. “I have total respect for him and he will get the instant respect of all the players. He’s a wonderful bloke and has got what it takes for a relegation fight.” Hart, meanwhile, has confirmed he turned down a youth-team role offered to him by the club following his sacking as first-team boss earlier this week.