Redknapp fury at friendly schedule
Harry Redknapp
Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp has launched a furious attack on the scheduling of England's friendly against Hungary.
The Three Lions face their first post-World Cup outing on August 11 at Wembley, just three days before the start of the Barclays Premier League season, when Spurs take on Manchester City.
Redknapp was quoted in the Daily Mail as saying: "Can someone tell me why you have an international week the week the season is starting?"
He added: "Can someone tell me what that is all about? They've just been away as a group together to the World Cup.
"They're probably sick of the sight of each other and now they're going to have an international week before the first week of the season, before we play Manchester City and a European qualifier."
Redknapp also had harsh words for those in charge of his own club, who put in place a pre-season schedule which included a tour of the United States and three tough home friendlies against Villarreal, Benfica and Fiorentina.
"We play Fiorentina on the Saturday (August 7), which is a nuisance, then they go off and play for their countries," said Redknapp. "I won't see them from Saturday night until Friday before we play Man City, not once.
"Why? What's the point of it? A meaningless friendly. The week before the season, when we should be training, working, getting organised for the first game, they won't be here.
"How can that be a way to prepare for the start of the season? Then you've got your fingers crossed that not too many come back injured."
Press Association
