Harry Redknapp has not taken kindly to Pavlyuchenko’s unsporting conduct. The Russian striker was taken off after muffing a simple goal chance against City. He reacted by storming off into the tunnel. Redknapp had some very strong words.
Its been an on and off season, the Russian did not endear himself when he first joined up complaining about the intensity of the training sessions. He has been injured frequently, most recently with a back problem that has kept him out of the starting line up. But Pavlyuchenko has managed to score goals and his technique has impressed Redknapp. Which has led to the will he, won’t he renew situation.
Redknapp also might be selling off David Bentley, who in an Arsenal repeat is missing vital first squad action with Aaron Lennon as firm favourite in the right winger position.