Redknapp praises Diarra

Harry Redknapp has praised the recent performances of French midfielder Lassana Diarra. Diarra has scored two goals in five games and has emerged as a hugely important player for Portsmouth.

Redknapp told The News: "He is so special, he is out of the top drawer. He is an amazing player.

"The sky's the limit for him. He's so focused and I'm delighted to have him. He'll be fantastic while he is with us.

"People have always sat him in the Claude Makelele role, but he has so much more to offer. He bursts from midfield and goes on runs, he can do that.

"He came out and said he wanted to play for a big, big club. Some players kiss the badge and say they love the club. Then as soon as they get the chance they're off.

"He wants to play for AC Milan, Real Madrid or Barcelona one day. What's wrong with that? Surely you have to be ambitious in this game.

"If he plays like this for the next few years and moves on I'll be delighted.

"He's a strong character. If he makes up his mind to do something, he'll do it. He knows exactly where he's going."