Redknapp takes up Director role

Last updated : 21 June 2001 By Footymad Previewer
Redknapp was sacked by The Hammers last month to bring to an end his eight-year reign at Upton Park and some believed that he would never return to football.

Redknapp had originally denied he had been in talks with Portsmouth about the newly-created position but Pompey confirmed that they had held discussions with him at Fratton Park.

South coast rivals Southampton held informal talks with Redknapp with regards to him replacing Glenn Hoddle at The Dell but discussions never reached an official level and he has decided to take up the role with Pompey to work closely with former Chelsea coach Graham Rix.

Speaking about his new role, Redknapp said: "There's a lot of work to be done and I'm really excited about the new challenge in front of me. I'm going to get myself involved because if I'd wanted to take retirement then I would have done.

He also revealed he had the chance to stay in the Premiership, but was attracted by Portsmouth's offer.

He added: "I spoke to Southampton and their chairman Rupert Lowe last week but I had already spoken to Portsmouth and made up my mind. If I'd wanted to continue in the Premiership there are a number of offers I could have waited for.

"I didn't want to be a manager and this is the perfect scenario. I think a lot of clubs are going this way and more will in the future. I won't miss the stress of being a manager on Saturdays and banging your head on the dug out. I'll leave that to Graham and watch the game in the stands."