Harry Redknapp hopes for European boost

Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp has admitted that he hopes Chelsea and Manchester City both exit the Champions League this week.

Spurs look likely to miss out on the Europa League knockout stages after their shock home defeat by PAOK last week, but boss Redknapp believes that is a big boost for their league campaign.

"I don't like to say it, but it wouldn't do us any harm to see Chelsea and City in the Europa League. It's harder than playing in the Champions League because of that Thursday night-Sunday afternoon schedule you get," said Redknapp.

"You know most of the teams in the Champions League and you're not travelling to the far-flung corners of Europe. In the Europa League you're schlepping all over the place."

Spurs have picked up 31 points from the last 33 available in the Premier League and could go second if they win their game in hand over Manchester United.