Newcastle after Redknapp

Harry Redknapp is reportedly the top target for Newcastle owner Mike Ashley to target charge after the departure of Sam Allardyce yesterday. Portsmouth are known to be very keen to hang on to Harry.

"I really do not know anything about this," Redknapp said. "I have not spoken to anyone from Newcastle. There's nothing in my being linked with the job. I had an offer not so long ago to take over at what I consider a massive club but I didn't go. I am happy down on the South Coast."

Portsmouth reacted to the speculation by issuing a statement in the afternoon. "We take it as a compliment that our players and personnel are often linked with some of the top clubs in this country, and indeed abroad," it began. "It is testimony to the quality of their work. However, we do feel it necessary to correct some of the inaccuracies in reports that have surfaced today. The club has received no approach for the services of our valued manager Harry Redknapp.

"He remains as committed as ever and he recently signed a new, improved four-year contract with Portsmouth. The club has made significant investments over the last two years in both players and infrastructure, and the results now being enjoyed are the fruits of those investments.

"Last year the club finished in its highest position for 52 years and this season we're on course to better that. We've recently won nine out of 10 away games – a club record. We're in the middle of the busiest time of the season because of the heavy fixture list and month-long transfer window and, as such, this speculation is unhelpful."