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Harry reveals Pompey pain

Manager describes torment behind decision to change jobs

Last updated: 29th October 2008

Redknapp: Emotional exit

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Harry Redknapp has admitted that just hours before he was appointed as Tottenham's new manager he 'definitely' did not want to leave Portsmouth.

News that Redknapp had agreed to replace Juande Ramos at White Hart Lane began to circulate late on Saturday night.

Redknapp was in the Spurs dugout the next day as his new team defeated Bolton 2-0, but he has now revealed just how agonising it was to leave Portsmouth.

"I think walking away from Portsmouth has to be the hardest thing I've ever done," he told The News.

"It was unbelievably hard to decide to move. I haven't really slept since I did.

"It was a difficult decision. On Saturday night I said I definitely wasn't going to go.

"I didn't want to leave. I love it here and I enjoy the life here. These are nice people and this is a great city.

"These fans are working class people like me and are fanatical about their football club."

Amazing journey

Redknapp eventually decided that the opportunity to manage Tottenham was too good to resist, but he remains proud of his achievements with Pompey.

"I leave knowing the club are in the best shape they have ever been left in and have great players," explained Redknapp, who was granted the freedom of the city on Tuesday following Pompey's FA Cup success.

"I will never look at Pompey's results and hope they lose. I don't leave here with any ill feeling at all.

"I was choked when I saw Fulham had equalised late in the game on Sunday.

"I will always want the club to be successful because there are good people here.

"It's not been easy to leave, believe me. I hope people appreciate the fantastic times we've had.

"It's been six of the best years ever. We've always done our best and it's been an amazing, amazing journey.

"I've loved every minute of it."