Harry Redknapp is arguably the most underrated manager in world football. So often regarded more as a "wheeler dealer" than a tactician, Phil McNulty of the BBC writes how Redknapp out-foxed Mancini and Man City to claim a UEFA Champions League place.
While the home side too often looked wrapped in a cloak of caution, Spurs, fielding a team packed with attacking intent, went on the offensive in the knowledge three points would win the season-long battle with City, Aston Villa and Liverpool for fourth place.
"I thought people might think I was mad to come here and play with two up top, but we did and it's worked," admitted Redknapp. "We were talking before the game and I said 'we've got Aaron Lennon, Peter Crouch, Jermain Defoe and Gareth Bale - let's go for it'."
Crouch's late goal was a long overdue reward for Spurs, who dominated the second half and were by far the more accomplished team as Roberto Mancini's City became devoid of ideas long before referee Steve Bennett officially ushered Redknapp and his team back into the big time.
While the home side too often looked wrapped in a cloak of caution, Spurs, fielding a team packed with attacking intent, went on the offensive in the knowledge three points would win the season-long battle with City, Aston Villa and Liverpool for fourth place.
"I thought people might think I was mad to come here and play with two up top, but we did and it's worked," admitted Redknapp. "We were talking before the game and I said 'we've got Aaron Lennon, Peter Crouch, Jermain Defoe and Gareth Bale - let's go for it'."
Crouch's late goal was a long overdue reward for Spurs, who dominated the second half and were by far the more accomplished team as Roberto Mancini's City became devoid of ideas long before referee Steve Bennett officially ushered Redknapp and his team back into the big time.
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