Chelsea still the team to beat in race for title, insists Redknapp

HARRY REDKNAPP believes Chelsea are still favourites to retain their Premier League title despite a run which has seen them lose three of their last four league matches, including Saturday’s game at Birmingham.

The Tottenham manager insists it is the most open title race in years.

Redknapp said: “They (Chelsea), for me, would still be slight favourites over Manchester United, Arsenal, then Manchester City, Tottenham come into the reckoning.

“Liverpool are starting to put a run together, Aston Villa, whoever, it’s open for somebody.

“If everybody believes you’ve got a chance then you’ve got a chance. If you think you’re never going to do it then don’t bother.

“Chelsea have got problems in so much as they’ve lost (Frank) Lampard, they’ve lost 20 goals a year from midfield. They’ve had John Terry missing, last week they had Alex missing as well at the back, they’ve had Essien missing.

“You take your best players out and you are obviously not going to be quite as good. Chelsea have had a problem with that.

“But when it comes to handing out the trophies, be it Champions League, be it Premier League, Chelsea will be right there again this year.

“I think it’s open, I’m not saying we will win it. We’re probably a 100-1 shot still but it’s more open than it’s been for years because Manchester United and Chelsea are not on a completely different level to the chasing pack.”

Redknapp also hinted that William Gallas, so impressive on Saturday will be continuing in the captain’s role.

Redknapp said: “William should be captain in all honesty.

“Luka is a quiet little guy. He just gets on with his own job.

“I made Tom captain, he’s been in great form. But he is a quiet boy.

“William has captained teams before, so there is every chance we’ll look at that.”