Redknapp fate back in hands of rival Roy

In one of those peculiar, yet typically frequent, twists of footballing fate, Harry Redknapp now needs a favour from the last man who, little over a week ago, represented his biggest rival.

Although Tottenham fought back here from a goal deficit with 10 men to earn their point, this was by far a better result for Aston Villa, who all but rubber-stamped their Premier League survival.

Arsenal’s draw against Norwich 24 hours earlier meant victory for Redknapp’s team would enable them to regain the initiative and climb above their north London rivals into the third position which guarantees entry into Europe’s elite competition next season.