Source: Telegraph
England's World Cup progress a boost for the Premier League says Harry Redknapp
England beat Croatia 5-1 in midweek to reach South Africa although the starting XI did not include Spurs striker Jermain Defoe, the in-form striker in the Premier League.
"It's good for England because the players know they have to be playing well regularly and competition for places will be fierce," said Redknapp. "There's a little group in the England squad that is special, but a lot of places are up for grabs and that has to be good for all our clubs."
Spurs face Manchester United this weekend in an attempt to extend their best start to a season since 1960, but he could be without Ledley King.
Redknapp added: "Luka Modric, Michael Dawson, and Jonathan Woodgate are still nowhere near returning. I'm not sure about Ledley, he still has a problem with his groin."
However, Heurelho Gomes has trained in the last two days and the goalkeeper could be available ahead of schedule.
"Gomes has trained in the last couple of days and will be in squad," added Redknapp, who also has Jermaine Jenas and Sebastien Bassong available.
Spurs could return to the top of the Premier League with a good result against United and Redknapp said: "We've had a great start, we've improved the squad, we have good characters here. Three or four have come in and changed us around, not just playing but the way they are but with their character.
"The start has surprised me, I felt we had a good squad and we had a good run last year and we've carried that on and we're in good form. We've played some terrific football.
"It's possible we could finish in the top four. It's time somebody does it. Villa have signed some good players, Man City look strong. It's possible for somebody to do it, why not Tottenham?
"Last year we had tight games against United, 0-0 at home in the League 0-0 in the Carling Cup final and, at Old Trafford we were 2-0 up before we lost.
"It's always a special game and it's a Tottenham team bang in form. You will always miss Ronaldo but the money was fantastic and they still have great players. Rio looks as if he'll be back. When all the trophies are handed out they'll be there, whether it's the Premier League or Champions League.
"We beat Liverpool and deservedly so and if we can play as well as we can Alex will know he's in for a tough game."
