Redknapp's Diarra fear

Pompey boss delighted with new boy

Last updated: 11th February 2008

Lassana Diarra Portsmouth January 2008

Diarra: Impressive

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Portsmouth boss Harry Redknapp has conceded he could face a fight to keep Lassana Diarra at Fratton Park.

Diarra has been an instant success at Pompey since his shock January switch from Arsenal.

The Frenchman has never hidden his desire to play for a bigger club and Redknapp has no problem with the midfielder's ambition.

Redknapp is a big fan of the 22-year-old and knows he will lose the former Chelsea youngster to a bigger club in the future.

Special

"He is so special. He is out of the top drawer," Redknapp told The News. "Everything about him is special. He is an amazing player.

"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 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 that for the next few years and moves on I'll be delighted."

Redknapp believes the French international is one of the best players he has worked with and is delighted to have lured him to Fratton Park.

"He wasn't prepared not to play. You can't play in the European Championships if you're not playing for Arsenal," added Redknapp.

"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.

Convinced
"I met him and got on well with him. I convinced him and I thought a lot of him, and he's responded to that.

"I love him. I love good players. I've worked with some good players and he is up there with the best of them.

"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."