Redknapp – “I Really Thought Modric Would Leave”

Jamie Redknapp, the ex-Tottenham midfielder and son of current manager Harry, has revealed his surprise that the club were able to hold on to Luka Modric in the summer.

Croatian ace Modric was subject to intense interest from Chelsea over the summer and clearly had his head turned, stating on several occasions his desire to leave White Hart Lane and even handed in a written transfer request to push through a move.

However, despite several bids from Chelsea, including a £40m offer on deadline day, Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy remained defiant that Modric would remain at Spurs and refused to do business. Redknapp revealed his surprise at his former clubs ability to hang on to their prize asset while also claiming his father Harry is enjoyign working with his talented young squad on a daily basis:

“I really thought he would leave in the summer when Chelsea were making their move and he was clearly distracted. But Spurs – and especially the chairman, Daniel Levy – held strong. The chairman said he wouldn’t go and he didn’t. Levy stood up to Chelsea, held his ground and now Spurs are seeing the rewards.

“I know my dad, Harry Redknapp, loves coming to training to watch players like Luka. He’s 64 now, but the day-to-day joy of helping a team to evolve is what excites him and I’ve never seen him as excited as he is about this team.”