Redknapp 'getting the needle' over Celtic interest
Southampton manager Harry Redknapp has accused Gordon Strachan of trying to “wreck” his team.
The Celtic boss has been strongly linked with a move for Saints goalkeeper Antti Niemi and defender Claus Lundekvam while Redknapp has confirmed the Hoops’ interest in Paul Telfer.
But the Southampton manager has now told Strachan to put up or shut up.
Redknapp told the Scottish Sun: “What is Gordon trying to do? Wreck my team?
“I am sick of it and it’s time for Celtic to come up with the money for my players or keep out of my affairs. It’s basically a put up or shut up situation.
“Celtic offered us just £1.25m for Niemi which was nowhere near good enough.
“They know what we want for him so they can stop their nonsense.
“Gordon asked about taking Paul Telfer on a free transfer. Well, he is under contract so he can buy him.
“I was aware of an early interest in Lundekvam but there has been absolutely nothing since.
“Is Gordon trying to unsettle my entire team?
“How many more players and when does this end? The situation has gone too far and I am sick of it. I’m getting the needle.”
Ironically, Redknapp is in Scotland ahead of the Saints’ friendly at Motherwell tonight while Strachan is with Celtic in Buckinghamshire for a training camp before games at Fulham and Leicester.
But the Saints’ manager has also been left furious that Celtic have gone directly to Southampton chairman Rupert Lowe to enquire about players.
Redknapp added: “It’s very disappointing to say the least that Gordon has not been in touch.
“I wouldn’t go direct to his chairman if I wanted one of his players.
“Celtic have been talking to my chairman because Gordon has a fantastic relationship with him, apparently.”
