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Don't blame Modric if he leaves Spurs - Kranjcar

Niko Kranjcar celebrates with Luka Modric © Getty Images

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Niko Kranjcar has leapt to the defence of Tottenham team-mate Luka Modric, claiming the midfielder should not be criticised for his behaviour this summer.

Modric has made no secret of his desire to leave White Hart Lane for Chelsea, and while Spurs chairman Daniel Levy remains adamant the midfielder will not be sold, manager Harry Redknapp has admitted Modric is unsettled at Tottenham and will not face Manchester United on Monday evening.

Croatia international Kranjcar, who is a close friend of Modric, having played alongside the midfielder at club and international level, believes the player should not be vilified for wanting to move on.

"It is his decision to make and something he has to go through with the club," Kranjcar told the London Evening Standard. "No one deserves to judge him if he decides to go because he has given three fantastic years to the club.

"I think as a friend you support them no matter what they decide to do. He has played every game with his heart and if he gets an opportunity or the club decide to sell him, everyone should support his decision. It is his decision not ours and it's not up to us to convince him to stay or go."

Despite Redknapp's claims that Modric's "head's not in the right place", Kranjcar, who has also expressed his desire to leave White Hart Lane after struggling to establish himself in the first team, believes that Modric will continue to give his all for Tottenham if he fails to secure a move to Chelsea.

"If the club don't sell him he will continue to play his football for the club as always because he loves the game," Kranjcar added. "He loves it too much not to give his best. Everyone should expect him to give his all to the cause. I'm sure he will put in a great performance when selected."

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