Pompey test Saints’ patience in Redknapp battle

PORTSMOUTH chairman Milan Mandaric yesterday stoked up the battle with Southampton for Harry Redknapp’s services when he claimed: “If Rupert Lowe loves Harry he should keep him there. If he doesn’t send him back to me.”

Southampton chairman Lowe has refused Pompey permission to talk to Redknapp, who was manager at Fratton Park before quitting to take over at St Mary’s.

However, following Sheffield United manager Neil Warnock’s decision to stay at Bramall Lane, Redknapp has emerged as the leading contender for the Pompey job.