Rumour: Harry Redknapp wants John Terry, Frank Lampard at Swansea
By George Perry
An unlikely chain of events could see John Terry and Frank Lampard reunite in Swansea City for a challenge neither has experienced: a relegation scrap.
Harry Redknapp is not among the candidates Swansea City are considering to replace Bob Bradley as manager. However, unlike the actual contenders for the job, Redknapp has openly expressed his interest in managing the 19th-place club. And if he gets the job, he may tap John Terry and Frank Lampard to lead the Swans to safety.
The Telegraph report that Redknapp has not yet had any contact with Swansea City. But they also speculate – based on the always reliable and perpetually lovable “sources close to Swansea” – that he could leap-frog Ryan Giggs, Chris Coleman and Roy Hodgson.
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Swansea have conceded 41 goals so far this season, the most in the Premier League. They sit in 19th place on goal differential. Both Swansea and Hull City have 12 points, but Swansea are five goals to the better.
Given their defensive woes, any centre-back would be an immediate asset. John Terry’s immediate availability, experience and the possibility for a relatively inexpensive loan or transfer makes him highly desirable. With Terry ruling out a move to China and Conte all but ruling out Terry’s return to the lineup, Swansea offers a uniquely satisfying prospect. His biggest liability would be his recurring gluteal injury, but remember, 41 goals.
Frank Lampard is out of contract at New York City FC, and hopes to continue playing. He could extend his career by a half-season at Swansea as he weighs his next step towards retirement or a final full year.
The prospect of John Terry and Frank Lampard sharing a pitch is delightfully interesting. The first step would be Swansea hiring Harry Redknapp. Even though he is not publicly under consideration, none of the candidates look particularly likely to fit the bill.
Chris Coleman is a club and national hero for his play at Swansea City and his coaching for Wales’ national team. He signed a new contract with Wales after Euro 2016. Coleman would be reluctant to abandon his post so soon and after such success.
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Ryan Giggs was a top candidate for the post when it ultimately went to Bob Bradley. Giggs only recently emerged from the Manchester United umbrella. Swansea City may not want another untested manager after the Bradley debacle.
Roy Hodgson has not coached a club side since West Bromwich Albion in 2012. He led West Brom to their best top-flight finish in 30 years (10th place) before departing for the England post. At England, though, Hodgson was criticized for out-dated training and tactics, and for his lineup choices. The 2016/17 Premier League would magnify those short-comings, and may leave Swansea mired in the relegation zone.
If Swansea City hires Harry Redknapp, John Terry and Frank Lampard would have little to lose by joining him in the relegation fight. They both want to play, and this could be one of the few possibilities to play in the Premier League.
If they help keep Swansea in the Premier League it will be further proof that they are among England’s and the league’s all-time bests. If Swansea fall to the Championship, there was little any collection of mid-season replacements could have done to save them.
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The whole scenario may be a bit far-fetched, but it is definitely worth watching.