Redknapp bans Benjani

Striker pays the penalty

By Peter Fraser   Last updated: 27th October 2007

Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp

Redknapp: Penalty ban

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Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp has banned Benjani Mwaruwari from taking any more penalties.

Benjani was denied from the spot by West Ham goalkeeper Robert Green in the 95th minute of the 0-0 draw between the Hammers and Pompey on Saturday.

The Pompey striker was handed the opportunity to give his side the three points after Hammers defender Danny Gabbidon was ruled to have handled in the box.

Redknapp admits that after Benjani's miss the forward is set to join Nwankwo Kanu, who missed earlier in the season against Liverpool, in being prevented from taking any more Pompey penalties.

Happy

"Benjani worked his socks off as usual for us but, as for penalties, he won't be taking another one," said Redknapp.

"(Niko) Kranjcar or (Sulley) Muntari were down to take any penalties. I wish one of them had.

"Kanu went on as substitute but I've already told him to stop taking penalties after the Liverpool game.

"I saw Niko with the ball and I was happy with that but Benji must have taken it off him.

Great form

"Of course I gave Benji a rollicking. I said 'you are a silly boy' and told him off - but he does so much work that I wish I hadn't rollicked him now. He's been in great form.

"I thought it was a penalty. Gabbidon touched the ball and moved it on with his arm, but coming so late in the game it has got to be a bit harsh.

"West Ham played well and matched us up in midfield. They must have done their homework but we started strong and if we'd scored it might have given them problems."