Redknapp not expecting Defoe departure

Harry Redknapp has rejected suggestions that striker Jermain Defoe
could leave Tottenham for bitter rivals Arsenal.

The England striker has been linked with a move away from White Hart Lane this summer, with local foes the Gunners reported as one possible destination.

But Redknapp does not believe the diminutive frontman would make the short journey across North London to Emirates Stadium.

"I didn't see that," Redknapp said of such speculation. "I couldn't see that one happening."

Defoe missed a chunk of last season after suffering an ankle injury on international duty with England against Switzerland in September.

The former West Ham and Portsmouth player still managed to bag 12 goals in all competitions but was unable to help Spurs secure a second season of Champions League football.

Redknapp, meanwhile, has urged Tottenham to show wantaway midfielder Luka Modric that he can realise his dreams with the north London club.

The 25-year-old Croatia international stunned Spurs supporters by declaring he wants to leave White Hart Lane, and will have enraged some by announcing Chelsea as his preferred destination.

Spurs chairman Daniel Levy responded by ordering the Blues to drop their pursuit of the player, insisting he was not for sale "at any price" to any club.

Redknapp now wants Tottenham to bolster their own squad and prove to Modric he does not need to join "a bigger club" to win silverware.

"I think we have to show him our ambition, which we will do," Redknapp told BBC Radio 5 Live's Sportsweek programme.

"If we can add one or two good players to our squad there's no reason we can't have another great season.

"So Tottenham could be a great club for him to stay with for the next few years. That's what we're hoping for."