Redknapp: All to play for in Champions League race

Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp will hope for a favour from new England boss Roy Hodgson in the battle for Champions League spots on the final day of the season.

Redknapp saw his side surrender the initiative to Arsenal in the fight for third position in the Barclays Premier League via yesterday’s 1-1 draw at Aston Villa.

It leaves Spurs a point behind the Gunners but that would change if they defeat Fulham at White Hart Lane and Hodgson ends his reign as West Brom head coach by denying Arsenal victory at the Hawthorns.

Redknapp said: “In an ideal world, we wanted to win at Villa so we would have have things in our own hands for the final day of the season.

“But there is still all to play for. Fulham will be a hard game for us and Arsenal have got no gimme in West Brom away. It is a tough place to go.

“It will be Roy’s last game in charge at Albion and I am sure he will get a great reception.

“He will set his team up to get a result, that’s for sure. West Brom don’t give in to anyone.”

Redknapp, the bookmakers favourite to replace Fabio Capello as England head coach, has spoken to Hodgson since his appointment.

He said: “I’ve not rang Roy about beating Arsenal but I have spoken to him and he has rung me as well.

“Listen, I wish him every success. It (not getting the England job) hasn’t changed my life one little bit.

“I’m very lucky to be doing the job I’m doing. I hope he has a great summer (at Euro 2012).”

Emmanuel Adebayor’s penalty cancelled out Villa midfielder Ciaran Clark’s deflected opener as Spurs recovered from having left-back Danny Rose sent off early in the second half.

Villa boss Alex McLeish expects to remain in charge of the midlands club for next season despite the negative reaction of some supporters.

Chants of ’Sack McLeish’ greeted the Scot from some fans on the final whistle despite Villa virtually ensuring top flight football for another season.

Former Birmingham boss McLeish admits it is has been a difficult season but is adamant he retains the support of club owner Randy Lerner.

He said: “It is as tough a season as I’ve had. I knew it was going to be a challenge but I’ve always stood up in the face of adversity.

“I assessed the squad at the start of the season and knew there was a possibility of being in the lower half of the table if we got injuries.

“Randy Lerner has been very supportive. He’s sent positive texts in the last few days and there is no indication of an urgent meeting being required.

“I expect to be here next season and hope to win the fans over. In general, the fans have been excellent.”