Redknapp says 'no' to Newcastle

Updated 12.56 Sat Jan 12 2008

Harry Redknapp has admitted he had been offered a "terrific opportunity" at Newcastle but has no plans of leaving Portsmouth.

The Pompey boss had been expected to take over from Sam Allardyce at St James' Park, but after holding talks with the Magpies he decided he could not abandon the south coast club or the players he has signed.

The 60-year-old accepts the offer from Newcastle was both flattering and tempting

His decision leaves Newcastle in chaos as they look to reconsider their options, but Redknapp is now looking forward to a stable future at Fratton Park.

He said: "I'm happy - this is a club I feel comfortable at. I have a fantastic relationship with the fans, a fantastic relationship with the owner and with Peter Storrie, chief executive."

"The players I've brought to the club, I've sold Portsmouth to them and to walk away having brought them here, when the club is doing so well, wouldn't be right."

But the 60-year-old accepts the offer from Newcastle was both flattering and tempting.

He said: "I had a great offer from them and to be offered the chance at a fantastic club like Newcastle was a terrific opportunity for me but at the end of it I couldn't do it.

"I had no intention of leaving here. The job now is to take this club forward. To walk away is not the right thing to do."

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