Portsmouth are in administration for the second time in two years, leaving the former Premier League club facing a battle against relegation from the second-tier Championship after also being docked 10 points.

A High Court hearing in London on Friday confirmed Portsmouth had gone into administration, a development which brought with it an automatic 10-point penalty from Football League chiefs.

“Portsmouth Football Club have been deducted 10 points in accordance with Football League rules and regulations,” said a Football League spokesman.

“This sanction has been implemented with immediate effect following formal confirmation that the club is in administration. Portsmouth have seven days in which to appeal.

“The Football League will now begin dialogue with the administrator aimed at achieving a successful sale of the club and its continuation in league football.”

Portsmouth face a winding-up hearing next week over an unpaid tax bill, while players and staff at the club have not been paid since January. The club’s debts have been estimated at about STG4 million ($A5.90 million).

Before Friday’s hearing, Portsmouth were languishing in 18th place in the Championship but the 10-point penalty will see them drop to 21st place, just outside the relegation zone ahead of Coventry City on goal difference.