Redknapp praise for Holloway

Ian Holloway has performed ‘a miracle’ as manager of Blackpool this season, according to Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp.

Speaking ahead of his side’s trip to Bloomfield Road on Sunday, Redknapp argued that Holloway was the leading candidate for Premier League manager of the season.

“What he’s done there has been a miracle. He and Roberto Di Matteo at West Brom are the two candidates for manager of the year – whoever does best will get my vote,” said Redknapp.

“Holloway’s done an incredible job. He’s full of enthusiasm, he’s bubbly, he’s full of character.”

“He’s got his teams playing fantastic football, getting great results.”

“Let’s be honest, no-one saw them with a chance to survive this year. Everybody said they’d be lucky if they get 20 points.”

“They have a go, they attack, they get after teams. They’ve been absolutely brilliant.”

Tottenham currently lie fifth in the Premier League, coming into Sunday’s match on the back of a six-game unbeaten run, and their manager again stressed they should not be written off as title contenders.

“We’ve got a chance,” said Redknapp. “It’s wide open this season.”

“There was nothing between us and Chelsea last week. That was their best team and the teams were evenly matched. I’m not saying we are going to win it – but it’s not impossible.”

Blackpool have won only twice at home this season, with four of their six victories coming away from Bloomfield Road.

Holloway’s side will also be without talismanic captain Charlie Adam. The 25-year-old Scotland international is suspended for the match after picking up five yellow cards.

Tottenham could welcome back Dutch playmaker Rafael Van der Vaart for Sunday’s clash while defender Younes Kaboul is also fit. Wilson Palacios is likely to start in central midfield despite suffering this week with an ankle injury.

Long-term absentee Ledley King has also returned to training but could yet require an operation on his troublesome groin.