Redknapp: Things have to change

10 May 2013 15:17

QPR manager Harry Redknapp believes the ethos of the squad must change if they are to be successful next season.

Redknapp's side currently sit bottom of the Barclays Premier League, with just four league wins to their name so far this season and their relegation confirmed two weeks ago at Reading.

The 66-year-old has also called the discipline of the squad off the pitch into question. Midfielder Stephane Mbia is the latest player to upset Redknapp, tweeting on Monday that he wants to secure a move back to previous club Marseille. "If they practised more rather than tweeted they would be better footballers," said Redknapp.

"Next year lots of things have to change here - the whole discipline of the club. I have pussyfooted around with some of them because they are here and you need to get the best out of them. I want players who want to be here, work hard and train hard - the others, just don't bother. In terms of discipline, it has got to change.

"Some of them think they can do what they want, when they want. It's been difficult because we have had to use them, but now is the time when we have had to make the changes.

"You have to get a good squad of players and need strong characters as much as ability. There are some good characters here and they are not all dysfunctional. There are some good lads here too, but you do need more. It's a different game, different people and different characters, but it is still football. I love football."

QPR welcome Newcastle to Loftus Road on Sunday as Alan Pardew's side search for a positive result to ease their own relegation fears. Redknapp admits it is difficult to get his players worked up to perform to their best but they will not allow Newcastle to walk away with a win.

"When you have nothing to play for but pride it is difficult. I'm looking forward to try and build a team for next season," he said. "We don't want to be rolling over for anyone. We will give it our best shot and try to win the game. I think Newcastle will be okay."

The Magpies go into the game with their top-flight status out of their own hands but Redknapp feels they have struggled due to disruptive injuries to key players throughout the season.

"I'm sure Newcastle will come back strong," he said. "Alan did a great job last year and overachieved, but underachieved this year. Injuries have affected them, but I'm sure next year they will come back and be strong again."

Source: PA