• Premier League

I couldn't juggle Spurs and England jobs - Redknapp

ESPN staff
February 10, 2012
Harry Redknapp admits he is flattered to be linked with the England job © PA Photos
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Harry Redknapp returns to the dugout as Tottenham host Newcastle in front of the ESPN cameras. To subscribe, click here

Harry Redknapp has ruled out the prospect of taking on the England job in a part-time capacity.

Redknapp has long been the bookmakers' favourite to replace Fabio Capello when the Italian's contract expired after Euro 2012, but the FA are on the hunt for a new manager following Capello's resignation on Wednesday.

Reports on Friday suggested Redknapp could take on the role while continuing his duties at White Hart Lane, but while the Spurs boss admitted he would be tempted if the FA was to come calling, he claims it would be near impossible to balance both roles.

"It is flattering," he said. "It's nice, I'd be lying if I said otherwise. I'd have to consider it obviously, but there's been no approach.

"It's very difficult. It's hard enough managing a league club let alone managing your country - it's two very difficult jobs and I think you have got to focus on one job. I can't take my eye off the ball at Tottenham and I owe it to them to completely focus on the job I am doing here without letting my thoughts wander elsewhere."

Redknapp, whose side host Newcastle in front of the ESPN cameras on Saturday, insists he is perfectly happy at Spurs. "I am focused on Tottenham, the club have been great," he said. "Daniel has brought me here and things could not have gone better here and I love every minute, great players, an excellent team and I could not be happier."

With many of England's senior players urging Redknapp to take the position and a number of Premier League managers backing the former Portsmouth and West Ham boss for the role, Redknapp admitted he was flattered to be linked with the job.

"It's nice that people put me in a position where they think I have a chance of getting the job," Redknapp said. "It's flattering that other managers have come out and said nice things and I appreciate everybody's support."

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson voiced his praise for Redknapp, admitting the Spurs boss ticked all the boxes.

"There is no doubt Harry Redknapp is the best man," Ferguson said. "The press have decided. Harry is the best man. He has the experience and personality and the knowledge of the game. He has changed the fortunes of every club he has been at. He is the right choice. You should try to get the best man with the best qualities. A young manager has no chance."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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