Harry Redknapp has thrown down the gauntlet to opposite number Arsene Wenger in Tottenham's battle to beat Arsenal to third place in the Barclays Premier League, by roaring: "Bring it on, Arsene!"
Tottenham have now gone five league matches without a victory, but Saturday's performance in a goalless draw against Chelsea suggested that blip was about to end during a run-in that looks easier than that of their arch-rivals, who have Manchester City and Chelsea still to play.
Redknapp scoffed at suggestions that closing the three-point gap to the Gunners in third place may be beyond his side, saying: "No, it's not out of reach, of course not. I still think we'll finish above Arsenal - bring it on, Arsene!"
Wenger's Arsenal have never finished below Tottenham, who last ruled the roost in the capital in 1995. They looked certain to do so a month ago but their mini-slump began to cast doubt on whether they would even secure a top-four spot.
"The position we were in a month ago, we looked nailed on, didn't we?" Redknapp said.
"It would be a bigger blow if we don't make it, that's for sure. That would knock me for six."
It really is now theirs to lose, with Chelsea facing an even tougher run-in than Arsenal, as well as a nightmare schedule that includes a Champions League quarter-final.
Redknapp admitted it would suit Spurs for the Blues to reach the semi-finals, saying: "Of course - we want them to go through.
"I think they'll beat Benfica over two games, although I think it'll be a tough game away first leg, and then obviously Barcelona in the semi-final.
"We're all hoping for that because we all want to come here (Stamford Bridge) and watch it - I certainly do."
Source: PA
