Harry Redknapp is preparing to step away from Soccer Aid after 18 years, revealing he intends to “bow out before being booted out” following his long-running role as one of the event’s most recognisable celebrity managers.
The 79-year-old, who recently guided England to a 3-2 victory over World XI in the charity match that raised £16.5 million for UNICEF, said he believes now is the right moment to retire on a high.
“I think I’ll probably retire myself off,” he said, adding: “We won this year so that might be it for me. I’ll bow out. Best to go out at the top rather than being booted out for getting beat again or something.”
Redknapp first became involved with Soccer Aid in 2008 and has since managed multiple teams, famously switching sides during matches and becoming a fan-favourite figure in the dugout.
This year, he teamed up with Bradley Walsh to lead England to victory, with key contributions on the pitch from former striker Jermain Defoe, alongside celebrity performers including actors Chris O’Dowd and Damson Idris. “Me and Bradley were like a dream team. We picked the winning team between us.”
He also admitted he still enjoys the energy of the event, but hinted this year’s success could mark his final appearance on the touchline.
While he won’t be involved in World Cup duties, Redknapp has already taken on a new role off the pitch, partnering with online supermarket Ocado for its World Cup campaign.
He stars in a new advert promoting “Half-Time Delivery Bundles”, designed to bring food and drinks directly to fans during matchdays. In the campaign, Redknapp delivers a motivational “team talk” to Ocado drivers, comparing their work to football under pressure.
“Football’s always been about bringing people together,” he said. “If you can deliver under pressure on match day, you’re my kind of player!”
The former Tottenham, West Ham, QPR and Birmingham manager remains one of football’s most recognisable personalities, while Soccer Aid co-stars such as Robbie Williams and Wayne Rooney continue to be associated with the annual charity spectacle.
Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/
