Source: Team_Talk
Redknapp tips Beckford Prem move
The 26-year-old hit the headlines when he netted the goal which knocked Manchester United out of the FA Cup at Old Trafford, and then went on to score a dramatic equaliser against Tottenham with a stoppage-time penalty to earn Leeds a fourth-round replay.[LNB]Beckford took his tally to the season to 24 with a brace against League One promotion rivals Colchester last weekend.[LNB]The frontman may have withdrawn his transfer request but, given Beckford is out of contract at the end of the season, Redknapp would not be surprised to see a club make their move in the summer - with Championship leaders Newcastle a likely interested party.[LNB]"He did well and would be a good gamble for someone in the Premier League, I am sure someone will take him," said the Spurs boss ahead of Wednesday night's trip to Elland Road.[LNB]"He is a free at the end of the season, and someone has probably done a deal with him, rather than paying a couple of million for him now.[LNB]"They will wait and take him at the end of the season on a free."[LNB]With Robbie Keane having joined Celtic on loan, Redknapp confirmed centre-back Michael Dawson would step in as skipper again, given Ledley King will be rested.[LNB]"Michael Dawson has been captaining the team, and has done a good job," the Spurs boss said.[LNB]"He signed a new contract, has been in great form, a real leader who leads by example and so he will be captain the team against Leeds."[LNB]Striker Roman Pavlyuchenko (groin) is not expected to feature on Wednesday night, while new signing Eidur Gudjohnsen is unavailable as he was not involved in the original tie.[LNB]With fellow new recruit Younes Kaboul and Kyle Walker, recalled from Sheffield United, both cup tied, Redknapp admits the deadline-day deals have left his options somewhat limited.[LNB]"We are one or two down in terms of numbers, but it will be an opportunity for a couple of youngsters to come and sit on the bench," he said.[LNB]"I will speak to (academy manager) John McDermott and (under-18s coach) Alex Inglethorpe to see which players deserve that opportunity."[LNB]Redknapp added: "It will be a tough game. They will be difficult opposition and played ever so well at White Hart Lane, even though we should have won the game.[LNB]"They are a team who can play way above their level, but we are doing well, with just two defeats in 12 games."[LNB][LNB] Leeds v Tottenham. Click here to bet.
