Harry reflects on success
18 May 2008 - 17:20:38
- Harry reflects on success
Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp claims saving the club from relegation two years ago was a greater achievement than winning the FA Cup with a 1-0 win over Cardiff City.
Redknapp returned to Fratton Park for a second spell as manager in December 2005 following a brief spell with arch-rivals Southampton and successfully kept them in the Premier League in a dramatic end to the season.
But speaking after Kanu 37th-minute winner had secured the FA Cup at Wembley on Saturday, a delighted Redknapp pointed to their top-flight survival as the proudest moment of his time with the south coast club.
"It's been a difficult year in many ways for me, but as far as the football is concerned it's fantastic," he said referring to the recent passing of his sister-in-law, Pat Lampard.
"In life, everyone goes through tough times and it's been a difficult few weeks but we got the result today and that's great.
"How will I celebrate? If I can get away and see if my dogs are all right at home then get my wife in the car I'd like to slip out tonight to a nice local restaurant and have a bottle of wine.
"Then maybe I'll take a ride around the town and see how the fans are celebrating.
"Let's face it, this win is all for them isn't it? It's a long time since Pompey fans have been to a cup final but they've had a great day.
"The fans are great and it's a glory day today but as far as achievements go maybe it isn't as big as coming back to the club two years ago and keeping us up when we looked dead and buried."
Meanwhile, Redknapp also revealed he hopes to strengthen his squad ahead of next season's foray into the UEFA Cup.
"It depends on who you can get how well you can do but we're hopeful of improving the squad," he added.
"I'll be looking for the top half of the table again and maybe another Wembley trip. That will do nicely."