• Premier League

Redknapp admits beating Arsenal for third 'tough'

ESPN staff
April 10, 2012
Harry Redknapp has had to readjust his and Spurs' aims in recent weeks © Getty Images
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Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp says there is "all still to play for" in the fight for third in the Premier League and automatic qualification for next season's Champions League, but has conceded that he would "settle for finishing fourth".

Redknapp's admission is a far cry from his and his side's aspirations of beating north London rivals Arsenal to third, following a run in which Spurs have won just one of their last eight league games and seen their adversaries overtake them in the standings.

Monday's defeat at the hands of Norwich has left Redknapp's team two points behind the Gunners in fourth position having played a game more, and with Newcastle now level on points with Spurs and Chelsea hot on their tail it will be a nervy run-in.

Redknapp is optimistic that his side can still secure fourth and a Champions League preliminary qualifying round spot, but is less sure of overhauling Arsene Wenger's side.

"It is all still to play for. It is going to be close, but there are still five games to go. It is the team who wants it most," said Redknapp after the home defeat to Norwich.

"We would settle for finishing fourth. Champions League football is the key.

"It would be lovely to finish above Arsenal, but that is going to be tough now.

"It is still all to play for - Chelsea have to play Arsenal, Newcastle have to play Chelsea, Chelsea have to play Liverpool away, so who knows?"

Next up for Spurs in the league is a trip to relegation battlers Queens Park Rangers, prior to which they must negotiate Chelsea in their FA Cup semi-final tie.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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