Roman Pavlyuchenko: Redknapp never saw me as a first-choice striker

Former Tottenham striker Roman Pavlyuchenko, speaking to RIA Novosti, gave some insight into his issues with the London club manager Harry Redknapp.

«I realised straight after arriving to the club that it is going to be hard. Redknapp showed me from day one that I have gone from being a first-choice striker down to fourth.»

«But during his first few games in charge in the autumn of 2008 you managed to net a few goals, did you not think then that it can work out?»

«He arrived straight after Ramos left, midseason. The transfer window was closed, so he had no choice but to play me. As soon as Keane, Crouch and Defoe came, I knew what was going on. Still, I kept going, scored a few goals despite not playing regularly, so I don’t regret those days.»

«How did he explain his refusal to let you go?»

«He told me he still counted on me. Even though I felt that it wasn’t the case. He said he would have to replace me with somebody, so perhaps they hadn’t found their man yet. Now they got Saha – and I was sold,» Lokomotiv Moscow newcomer told RIA Novosti.