Redknapp: dreads African cup

Harry Redknapp is worried that the African Cup of Nations in January may cost any chance his Portsmouth side had of qualifying for European football next season. A 4-1 victory over Newcastle has meant Europe next year has become a very realistic possibility.

The prospect of losing the likes of Ghana's Sulley Muntari, Senegal's Bouba Diop profile" alt="Papa Bouba Diop profile">Papa Bouba Diop and Nigeria's John Utaka fills Redknapp with dread.

He said: "We're a big, strong imposing team with ability and a bit of pace but we'll lose four or five players for the Nations Cup and that will leave us short.

"I only hope this result doesn't mean people are taking notice of us now. I just want us to keep picking up points away from home like we have been doing."

A UEFA Cup place is well within Portsmouth's grasp but Redknapp played down any chance of challenging for a Champions League place despite a win that stretched their unbeaten league run to seven games.

He said: "At the start of the season I thought if we could finish in the top half I'd be delighted and I still feel the same.

"I know people are talking about us being top six now but there are a lot of big clubs in and around us who will come on a run and it's only early days.

"But if you keep winning away from home as we have been doing, it gives you a chance to do well."