Football
John Brewin, ESPN FC 9y

QPR boss Harry Redknapp not worried by sack reports

LONDON -- Harry Redknapp said he is unconcerned by reports that his position as QPR manager is in imminent danger.

After hailing his team's showing in their 2-0 defeat to Manchester United as one of Rangers' "better home performances," he said he had been assured by owner Tony Fernandes that reports his job was on the line were greatly exaggerated.

"What will be will be," Redknapp said. "I don't worry about the owners. That's their choice if they want to make a change. People are talking about it because it was in one newspaper. Who do you believe? The 'insider' -- whoever he may be -- or the chairman, who tells me it's rubbish?

"I spoke to Tony Fernandes five times this week, and he said: 'What a load of nonsense.'"

Rangers had the best chances in the first half, with United goalkeeper David De Gea twice denying Charlie Austin.

"Charlie had a couple of great strikes," Redknapp said. "He has done ever so well. He's improving, his attitude is first class. He comes in and works hard, trains hard and loves being a footballer. He deserves his success."

Redknapp was delighted with his team's efforts, especially in that first 45 minutes. Goals from Marouane Fellaini and James Wilson after the break secured the points for United to leave Rangers struggling in the relegation zone.

"I thought we worked very hard today," Redknapp said. "We were right in the game at half-time. We switched off for a second and got punished with the goal. We left ourselves open for the second goal. It was one of our better home performances.

"I couldn't have been more pleased with us. The players have worked hard for me every week."

Redknapp insisted he was not giving up on his team's chance of survival, adding: "From Everton downwards, it's going to be very close. There's nothing in it."

Rangers have lost all 10 of their matches away from Loftus Road this season, and Redknapp knows they must improve on that record.

"Our away form has been poor," he said. "We're not a good counter-attacking team because we don't have genuine pace away from home. We have to put it right, but the players gave everything today. I can't ask any more from them."

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