QPR boss: You shouldn’t get in heated arguments with players

By Tom Moore Saturday, January 5, 2013
8:00 AM

QPR manager Harry Redknapp reflected on the training ground clash between Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini and strikeer Mario Balotelli by questioning the wisdom of a manager confronting players.

An argument erupted during the Champions’ practice session yesterday that saw the Italians grapple with each other and Mancini today admitted he lost his temper for “one or two seconds”.

Redknapp insists such incidents are rare in the modern game and believes there is little to be gained from reading players the riot act.

“You shouldn’t get in those situations, what can you win? It can’t happen with players now. Shouting and screaming at players doesn’t get you anywhere,” he said.

“Years ago it used to happen. Years and years ago some managers would be throwing cups around. Those days are long gone.

“You lose their respect if you behave like that, you have to talk to them.

“Roberto Mancini’s a top manager but I’m sure Balotelli can get you like that. He’s difficult.”

Redknapp revealed that there has been a lift around the R’s Harlington training ground after the 1-0 win over Chelsea.

The west Londoners are five points adrift but are going into today’s FA Cup clash with West Brom in confident mood.

“That win brings the pack back a bit now. We’re still adrift but at least we have half a chance. If we can put back to back wins together anything can happen,” Redknapp said.

“Everyone’s buzzing on the back of Chelsea, the whole place feels better. There’s nothing like it.

“I’ve been through it so many times before when that big win can change everything. Hopefully it can do that for us now.

“Because of the situation we’re in we’ll have to claw out results, get some results and nick a 1-0 where we can. We’re not going to smash teams up.”

Shaun Wright-Phillips scored the winner and Redknapp hopes the goal gives him confidence.

“It’s great when they score against their old teams,” he added. “They don’t celebrate but inside they’re saying ‘Have some of that’.

“It was good for him. It was a great finish as well. The last 10 minutes seem about 10 hours.

“He should be confident. I brought him into the team and encouraged him. I’ve tried to get the best out of him.

“It was a shame Junior did a hamstring as it was his first chance as well.”