Moyes favourite for Spurs as Redknapp severs ties

Redknapp and agent Paul Stretford spent yesterday in negotiations with chairman Daniel Levy and it became clear last night the manager was close to ending his three-and-a-half-year tenure at White Hart Lane. The 65-year-old had 12 months left on his contract and is understood to have been unhappy with Levy’s failure to offer him a new three-year deal.

Levy told the Spurs website: “This is not a decision the board and I have taken lightly. Harry arrived at the club at a time when his experience and approach was exactly what was needed. This decision in no way detracts from the excellent work Harry has done during his time with the club and I should like to thank him for his achievements and contribution. Harry will always be welcome at the Lane.”

Redknapp added: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Spurs and am proud of my achievements. I have had a fantastic four years with the club, at times the football has been breathtaking. I am sad to be leaving but wish to thank the players, staff and fans for their terrific support.”

Redknapp took charge of Tottenham in October 2008. He led them to an eighth-place finish and an appearance in the League Cup final, which they lost to Manchester United. In his first full season in charge, he guided Spurs to fourth position, taking them into the Champions League for the first time.

Redknapp just missed out on a Champions League return this season as Chelsea snatched the last available place away from them with their final win over Bayern Munich. That capped a dramatic season for Redknapp, who underwent a heart procedure in November, was cleared of tax evasion in February and missed out on the England job in May. Everton manager David Moyes is the early favourite to succeed Redknapp.