"Flattered" Redknapp says he would not juggle England and Tottenham

By Ben James Feb 10, 2012, 14:34 GMT

London - If Harry Redknapp is to be the next England manager, it will mean him leaving his role in charge at Tottenham Hotspur.

Redknapp is the overwhelming favourite to fill the void created by the resignation of Fabio Capello earlier this week.

And the 64-year-old said on Friday he would consider taking the job if it's offered, but would not do it on a part-time basis.

'It is hard enough managing a league club, let alone your country,' he said. 'It is two very difficult jobs and you have to focus on one job.'

The Football Association has made clear its desire to appoint a Briton to the role and Redknapp said it was flattering to be considered as the No 1 choice.

'It is nice that people put me in a position where they think I've got a chance of the job', he said.

'Yes, it's flattering. Other managers have come out and said nice things and I appreciate everybody's support in everything that has happened in my life in the last little spell.

But Redknapp said he knew the role was a difficult one, not least because of the pressure that accompanies it and the scrutiny that goes with it.

'You have to look at the whole thing and realise just what a tough job it is,' he said.

'No-one has a magic wand. They've all found it very difficult. Whoever takes that job has a real job on his hands.

'It shows what a difficult job it is to manage England when you go and get Fabio Capello - there wouldn't be too many in the world better than him - and he found it difficult.

'There's been a lot of great managers since Alf Ramsey (who coached England to World Cup victory in 1966).

'Apart from Terry Venables in Euro 96, who came out with loads of credit, we haven't really had too much success, which shows what a difficult job it must be.

'At my age I have to do what's right for me. Whatever decision, my family will come first now. If the opportunity comes I will look at it in then.'

Redknapp said that until he is asked, if he is asked, he will stay focused on his job at Tottenham, with his first priority their match against Newcastle United this weekend.

'I can't take my eye off the ball at Tottenham. We are trying to get Champions League football and owe it to them to keep completely focused,' he said.

'The club have been great to me. Daniel (Levy, the chairman) brought me here and it couldn't have gone better for me in the three years I've had here, and I love every minute of coming here.

'I've great players, an excellent team and I couldn't be happier than what I am here at the moment. Until the question gets asked - no-one has approached Daniel - there is nothing for me to consider.

'They may have someone else in mind. We are all guessing. Whoever they pick, I hope they make the right decision. All we can do is see what happens.'

England under-21 manager Stuart Pearce will take charge of the team for their friendly international against Holland at Wembley on Feb 29.