Redknapp: All to play for

7 Maio 2012 00:31

Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp acknowledged his side missed a big chance to go third on Sunday as the Champions League race tightens up.

A second-half penalty from Emmanuel Adebayor clinched a 1-1 draw for Tottenham against Aston Villa but with 22 shots on goal Redknapp's side had plenty of chances to win the match, which would have ensured they could finish no lower than fourth.

Arsenal are currently third but drew 3-3 with Norwich on Saturday, meaning if Tottenham had beaten Aston Villa, they would have moved above their London rivals into third place.

"Yeah of course, a win today and we are guaranteed fourth place but it's all to play for still," Redknapp said after the game.

"There's one game left.

"I mean look at the permutations.

"It could be Chelsea, it could be Newcastle, it could be us, it could be Arsenal, it's just impossible to tell.

"I mean we've all got tough games next week.

"No-one's got an easy game so it will be an interesting last day of the season."

If Chelsea win the European Champions League Final on May 19, fourth spot in the English Premier League will not include a qualifying spot in next season's Champions League, making third place crucial.

With one game left, Arsenal sit third with 67 points, while Tottenham (66 points) and Newcastle (65 points) are both within striking distance.

Chelsea (61 points) will also be in the mix if they beat Liverpool on Tuesday.

Redknapp considers the battle for third and fourth wide open as he does not believe any of the four teams can be too confident of victory on the final day of the season.

Tottenham will host Fulham on Sunday.

"Fulham will be a tough game, but Arsenal haven't got a gimmie have they, West Brom away," Redknapp said.

"Newcastle go to Everton, if Chelsea go win at Liverpool and beat Blackburn.

"We are going to need to win, we can't be sitting there waiting, Martin Jol won't be coming back wanting to help us will he?"

Aston Villa manager Alex McLeish was relieved his side was able to secure their survival following the draw with Spurs.

"The fact I've come through this I feel I could go through anything," he said.

"It's been a hell of a season, but we've shown some bottle, I'm sure it'll stand us in good stead."