Harry Redknapp reveals superstition stopping him from watching Frank Lampard’s Coventry City
Harry Redknapp, who famously enjoyed two successful spells in charge of Portsmouth, guiding the club to Premier League promotion and lifting the FA Cup, has admitted to having a peculiar superstition when it comes to watching Coventry City — the side currently managed by his nephew, Frank Lampard.
The former Pompey boss says he’s deliberately avoiding attending any Coventry matches this season out of fear that his presence might jinx their impressive form. Lampard’s side have made a flying start to the Championship campaign, collecting 22 points from their opening 10 fixtures and sitting one point clear of Middlesbrough at the top of the table.
While the 47-year-old Lampard looks to emulate his uncle’s success — with Redknapp having previously achieved promotions with both Portsmouth and QPR — his famous relative insists he’s content to cheer him on from a distance for now.
Speaking to Coventry Live, Redknapp confessed:
“The first result I look for is always Coventry’s. I’ve been scared to come to a game because I’m worried if I show up and they lose, I’ll be the bad-luck charm. So while they’re winning, I’m staying away. I’m ready to go, but hopefully it’s a long time before I do — that’ll mean they keep on winning. I follow every game on TV, and I’m kicking every ball for him. He deserves all the success he’s getting.”
Redknapp went on to praise Lampard’s achievements since taking charge at the Coventry Building Society Arena, pointing out the team’s continued progress despite limited activity in the transfer market.
“They’ve had a fantastic start. Last season they were unlucky not to reach the playoff final — they were the better side against Sunderland, and that last kick of the game robbed them of their chance. This year, Frank’s carried on the great work without making big changes. He’s kept faith with the same group of players and is getting the very best out of them. He’s doing a superb job.”
The veteran manager also offered glowing praise of Lampard’s dedication and professionalism, recalling the midfielder’s tireless work ethic during his playing days.
“He was the best professional I’ve ever seen in all my years in football,” Redknapp said. “Nobody came close to him in terms of attitude and commitment. He’d still be out on the training ground at four o’clock in the afternoon, hours after everyone else had gone home — just practising and running on his own every day. His discipline was unreal.”
As Coventry prepare to visit Fratton Park to face Portsmouth, Redknapp admits he’ll once again be watching from afar — eager to see his nephew continue the strong run but wary of tempting fate by turning up in person.
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