REDKNAPP: Europa League defeat for West Ham would be blessing in disguise

THE SOONER West Ham get knocked out of the Europa League the better, that’s the view of Harry Redknapp.

The Hammers face the Romanian outfit away tonight in the second leg of their third qualifying round with the tie poised at 2-2. But for Redknapp it would be no bad thing if the Hammers were sent crashing out of the competition with the Premier League their number one priority.

“[The Europa League] who needs it? For me it would be a blessing if West Ham got beaten tomorrow and went out the competition,” Redknapp (@Redknapp) posted on KICCA.

“I know they’re not going to want to admit that and nor will Slaven but from the point of view of making sure the they do well in the Premier League then it is a hindrance.

“No one at the end of the season will remember ‘oh, we got into the 3rd round proper of the Europa League, unless they win the tournament it’s a competition that can kill your league ambitions.”

Redknapp feels the competition has already dealt a blow to West Ham’s domestic hopes – this match coming as it does just three days before their Premier League opener at Arsenal. On top of that they’ve already lost key man Enner Valencia to leave the squad looking far from strong enough to enter the campaign with confidence.

“They could have done without the Europa League, they’ve had lots of games in the qualifying rounds.

“They’ve got a tough game at Arsenal at the weekend and it’s not ideal preparation.

“They’ve lost Enner Valencia so they need to bring in two-three players and I think Slaven is desperate to bring in two-three players.

“I’ve not spoken to him and am going to ring him to wish him all the best. He’s a good lad and I’m sure given the opportunity and the right tools he can do the job.

“But they are short at the moment and I spoke with someone who works there on the scouting side this week and he said they are short and need two-three players to give them a chance to be anywhere near where we were last season. “It’s not going to be easy for him but I wish him well.”