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Wheeler-dealer Redknapp carries on doing things his own way at Pompey

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Pablo Luna - Moonlighting for Betfair. Pablo looks at a world that is never dull when you're Harry Redknapp

Harry Redknapp (2 March 1947) has been called the 'Arthur Daley' of football and I think that description suits him! His wheeling and dealing antics are legendary within the game. He has had his fair share of murky dealings in the past but seems to have found a sympathetic press. I believe he has 'gotten away with it' somehow! I do think he is a character and the Premiership is better for having him in it.

He is the father of Jamie Redknapp and uncle of Frank Lampard. I am told Jamie gets his good looks from his mother's side.

As an ineffectual winger when playing for West Ham he rubbed shoulders with some greats - Bobby Moore, Martin Peters, Geoff Hurst. In 149 games he scored 8 goals so I can only assume that he must have created or assisted shed loads!

I have never considered him a great manager but will acknowledge that he understands the game. Some say he is performing minor miracles at this club, I would not go that far. His buy em - flog em mentality has generally worked and he has managed to get the last bit from somebody before they go over the top, see David James and Sol Campell (inspired signings nonetheless). He can spot a good player and will get the best out of them before getting rid. He has done his fair share of comedy signings but with someone like 'Harry on the phone' that is acceptable.

I did chuckle when Harry resigned from Portsmouth in November 2004 saying he needed to recharge his batteries and get away from the game only to take the reigns of their fiercest rivals Southampton in December 2004. The Pompey fans went feral!

His second spell with Portsmouth is going quite well and with Harry signing a new contract and a new stadium promised and in the pipeline, things could not be better at Fratton Park. Currently in fifth place an assault on a top 6 place looks possible - or does it? I think not! I would strongly advise punters to lay them against that notion because that is all it is - a notion! I am convinced that they will not finish in the top eight and to quote Harry they will be 'delighted' if they first get 40 points and safety. Once those points are in the bank then they can dream of a top half finish. I also think that they are punching above their weight at the moment and wonder how they will cope with a bad patch or even unpleasant weather, given the nature of their side.

At the moment all of their goals are being scored by Africans Mwaruwari, Kanu, Utaka and Muntari. From 20 January to 10 February the 2008 African Cup of Nations commence and Harry will lose at least five influential first teamers to this Mickey Mouse tournament. Portsmouth will not be able to sustain business as usual with the goalscoring potency ripped out of their side. Who can replace them from within the squad? Letters on a postcard please.

I note with bewilderment that Portsmouth are currently trading at (2.52) with Betfair for a top six finish, what a lay that is. Equally they are (6.2) with Betfair as winner without the big four; this is flight of the imagination gone mad and advise my followers to lay now!

To read more about Portsmouth Football Club go to:

http://www.portsmouthfc.co.uk/