Redknapp defends team choice

18 April 2009 12:45
Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp will not alter his selection policy as long as his side continue their good run of form. Spurs were in relegation trouble when Redknapp took over at White Hart Line but now seem destined for a top-half finish and could possibly qualify for the new-look Europa League. Players such as Tom Huddlestone and David Bentley, previously first-team regulars, have struggled to retain their positions under the new regime. But Redknapp insists the team's resurgence in the league shows that his selection policy is correct. "I came and took over a team that was doing no good. So I'm sorry but if people are not happy because they are not playing I really don't care to be honest," he said. Winning "Whatever I have done I have done it right because I am picking a team that is winning football matches. I have brought players in and the competition became more fierce. "Tom is a good player, a terrific player. He could be a top, top player and he was excellent last week but I brought Palacios in and he has done well for me." Redknapp also revealed that he almost became manager of Newcastle United in the aftermath of Sam Allardyce's sacking last season. He cited not wanting to be separated from his family as the main reason behind his decision to stay at Fratton Park and his loyalty was rewarded with victory in the FA Cup final. Redknapp added: "I was very close (but) I made the right decision staying at Portsmouth and was lucky to be the manager that won the FA Cup. I don't regret that at all. "Honestly, one of the biggest reasons was I did not want to go away from home. That might be called unambitious but I did not want to be away all week from my family. "It did not appeal at my age. I had dogs and family. Life is too short for me to be away all week. If I did not like my wife I would have gone. But I wanted to be with her."

Source: SKY_Sports