Redknapp quits as QPR boss

LONDON: Harry Redknapp resigned as manager of Premier League strugglers Queens Park Rangers on Tuesday, saying his impending knee surgery would otherwise dent the club’s battle to stay in the English top flight.
However, his announcement came just a day after QPR chairman Tony Fernandes tweeted there would be “no more cheque book” at the relegation-threatened west London club as the January transfer window closed Monday.
Veteran English manager, Redknapp, 67, had repeatedly said he had the full support of Malaysian businessman Fernandes, the founder of the AirAsia budget airline, amid reports his position was in jeopardy with QPR currently second-bottom in the table.
Head of football operations Les Ferdinand, the former QPR striker, has taken temporary charge ahead of this Saturday’s league match at home to Southampton as Fernandes seeks a permanent replacement for Redknapp.
“Sadly, I need immediate surgery on my knee which is going to stop me from doing my job in the coming weeks,” said Redknapp, who arrived at Loftus Road in November 2012, in a club statement.
“It means I won’t be able to be out on the training pitch every day, and if I can’t give 100 percent I feel it’s better for someone else to take over the reins.”
Redknapp insisted there has been no falling out with the Rangers chairman, adding: “My relationship with Tony Fernandes has been one of the highlights of my footballing career and I wish the club every success.
“I am confident they will survive in the Premier League this year.
“I have had such a fantastic time at QPR. I would like to thank the Board, the players and all my staff, and especially the supporters who have been absolutely fantastic to me since I arrived at the club for their tremendous support.”