Fergie lauds Harry’s practical approach

MANCHESTER UNITED boss Alex Ferguson has praised the common sense approach of Tottenham counterpart Harry Redknapp as he prepares to face Spurs as genuine title rivals for the first time in his 26-year reign tomorrow.

Tottenham are eight points behind United having played a game more and need to win at White Hart Lane to remain in real contention, in a campaign where they have also impressed on the European stage.

Ferguson credits their success to the ability of Redknapp.

Playing an expansive brand of football that is in keeping with Spurs’ cherished tradition, the north London side have proved themselves capable of taking any team apart on their day – most famously against Inter Milan in the Champions League in November.

In adding that experience to the FA Cup he won at Portsmouth, Redknapp has fulfilled all the criteria which had previously been cited as reasons why England could not be coached by an Englishman.

Ferguson believes it is down to Redknapp’s straightforward approach to his job.

“Harry’s great strength is his common sense management,” said the United chief.

“He doesn’t confuse issues. He is a good judge of a footballer and is straightforward in what he demands of them.

“That is down to the experience he has gathered over the years. Common sense management today is not a bad thing to have.”

Ferguson admits it is a long time since Spurs have enjoyed such good times.

“Traditionally, Tottenham are one of the really good football clubs, with a proper philosophy of the game,” said Ferguson.

“Unfortunately you have to go back to 1961 when they had their great team under Bill Nicholson.”

Contending for the Barclays Premier League crown seemed a distant ambition when Redknapp arrived at Spurs.

“The turnaround since Harry went there is quite startling,” said Ferguson.

“Their performance level this season, allied to it being their first time in the Champions League, has been excellent.

“But the test for them will be when they combine being back in the Champions League in February and March with the challenge of the league and the FA Cup.”

While Ferguson will welcome back Wayne Rooney to the fold tomorrow, the man who has amazed the manager this year is his veteran Ryan Giggs.

If he plays, the 37-year-old will make his 600th appearance for United at White Hart Lane and he continues to wow his boss, no more so than with his match-winning performance against Liverpool last weekend.

“Ryan is an incredible human being,” said Ferguson.

“He defies the logic of forwards when he plays at the level he did last Sunday. Obviously we know how to manage him.”