Harry Redknapp was presented as Birmingham City manager this afternoon.
New Birmingham City manager Harry Redknapp during the press conference
New Birmingham City manager Harry Redknapp has told BBC Sport that he ‘wasn’t interested in money’ when taking the job – and hailed defender Paul Robinson when speaking to The Mirror.
The Blues lost 2-0 at home to Burton Albion on Monday afternoon, and that defeat proved to be Gianfranco Zola’s final game in charge, with the Italian handing in his resignation shortly after the final whistle at St. Andrews.
With just two wins in 24 games, Zola’s appointment was a complete disaster, and the club’s bizarre decision to sack Gary Rowett in December appears to be one of the worst moves in recent Championship history.
Birmingham have moved quickly to replace Zola though, as they appointed Harry Redknapp as their new manager on Tuesday morning, ahead of this weekend’s vital game against city rivals Aston Villa.
With just three games to go, Birmingham are just three points clear of the relegation zone, and Redknapp has a huge task on his hands to reverse a club that has been in freefall in 2017.
The former QPR boss hasn’t been in management since leaving Loftus Road in February 2015, and must get to work quickly if he is to keep Birmingham in the Championship – which would seemingly affect his pay.
Paul Robinson of Birmingham City celebrates
Speaking to BBC Sport, Redknapp revealed that he isn’t being paid by the Blues, refusing payment if he doesn’t keep the club in the Championship, but will be paid a bonus if he does manage to avoid to the drop.
Redknapp also praised veteran defender Paul Robinson, admitting that he has always admired the 38-year-old, hailing him as a ‘fantastic character’ to have in the dressing room.
“I’m not being paid. It doesn’t bother me though,” said Redknapp. “I have got a bonus. It’s not a massive one, but I said ‘if I don’t keep you up, I don’t want paying’.”
“Robinson’s a fantastic character. He’s an important boy at the club. I’ve always admired him very much,” he added to The Mirror.
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