Tuesday 19 August 2014 18:45, UK
Harry Redknapp will not stand in the way of Glenn Hoddle if he wants to take the vacant manager's job at Crystal Palace.
The Eagles are searching for a new boss after the sudden departure of Tony Pulis, just two days before last Saturday's 2-1 defeat by Arsenal.
Hoddle was named third favourite for the position at Selhurst Park despite only recently being appointed as first-team coach at QPR but Sky Sources have since ruled him out of the running.
Redknapp earlier spoke to Sky Sports News HQ and welcomed the addition of the former England boss to his backroom staff, but would understand if he wanted to return to management.
"I'm hoping obviously he stays, but football is football," said Redknapp.
I’m delighted to have Glenn here, but listen if it’s something he wants to do, there’s nothing we can do.
"I brought Steve McClaren in, Steve Cotterill, they all went off and managed other clubs, so I'm hoping Palace appoint someone else very quickly.
"I'm delighted to have Glenn here, but listen if it's something he wants to do, there's nothing we can do.
"If that's what he wants to do, but I'm hoping he stays with us because I really want him to be part of our team this season."
Former Cardiff boss Malky Mackay and ex-Tottenham head coach Tim Sherwood are thought to be the front-runners for the job.
The pair were interviewed on Sunday by Palace, who expect to name the new man early this week.
Ex-Palace player Tony Popovic was also named as a possible contender, but he has distanced himself from speculation as Pulis' successor.
Popovic, the current manager of Western Sydney Wanderers, insists he has not been in contact with his former club.
"No, there's been no conversations with anyone in regards to that and it's not for us to speak about speculation," said the Australian, who worked on the coaching staff of former Palace boss Dougie Freedman.
"If there was something happening we'd certainly speak to you about it. I'm very fond of that club. I have great memories and history there and many friends I have there.
"I wish them the best in whoever they choose as a manager."
