The 2005-06 campaign was a frantic, dramatic fight for survival for Portsmouth as Pompey ultimately finished a crucial 17th in the Premier League. The season was defined by a turbulent mid-season managerial change that saw the return of Harry Redknapp, who, after being hired in December, steered the club from being eight points adrift of safety in February to a remarkable late-season escape. Leading the line was the enigmatic Lomana LuaLua, whose 7 league goals proved vital in a campaign built on sheer grit and resilience, culminating in a crucial final-day 2-1 victory at Wigan Athletic that secured their top-flight status and made it a legendary escape for the Fratton faithful.