As West Ham United struggle with a mid-season slump under Nuno Espírito Santo, the search for a savior has inevitably brought back some familiar faces.
However, a legendary figure has effectively ruled himself out of a return to the London Stadium in the most ‘Harry’ way possible.
Harry Redknapp, now 78, was recently cornered at Newbury Racecourse by ITV Racing’s Ed Chamberlin.
With the Hammers currently languishing in the relegation zone and a decisive clash against Brighton looming, fans are nostalgic for the days when Redknapp led the club to a record fifth place finish.
But even though he still has a lot of love for his childhood club, his priorities have shifted from the technical field to the ring.
Harry Redknapp says he would take West Ham job
Redknapp was in good spirits when asked if he would take the West Ham job if it was offered to him.
He jokingly responded (via The Mirror): “I don’t mind taking the job, but Saturdays are hard for me. I like running, so it wouldn’t be possible.”
The former Hammers boss explained that he is now fully focused on his second passion.
Although football remains in his blood, the stress of the Premier League dugout seems a far cry from the quiet (if sometimes nerve-wracking) life of a racehorse owner.
For Redknapp, a Saturday afternoon at a race meeting is now more appealing than a high-stakes battle for three points.
Harry Redknapp’s incredible managerial career
Redknapp has enjoyed a fantastic managerial career. Managing over 1,400 games, Redknapp is a member of an elite group of managers who have won the FA Cup (with Portsmouth in 2008) and guided teams to the Champions League.
His seven-year reign at West Ham remains iconic, thanks in large part to his success in integrating academy graduates like Frank Lampard, Rio Ferdinand and Michael Carrick.
The Hammers board are expected to make a decision on under-fire Nuno Espirito Santo after the Brighton game.
But Redknapp’s comments suggest he will be watching from the stands and not the touchline.
