Corluka blames Redknapp for Tottenham's stuttering Champions League push

Vedran Corluka believes Harry Redknapp has cost Tottenham the chance of playing Champions League football next season.

Spurs’ form has suffered since Fabio Capello resigned as England boss, with Redknapp constantly touted as the Italian’s most likely replacement.

But Corluka, who is currently on loan at Bayer Leverkusen, believes it is the small squad and Redknapp’s lack of rotation that has halted their bid for a place in the Premier League’s top four.

“I’ve watched almost every Spurs game and they played them all with the same 11, 12, 13 players,” he told The Sun.

“He didn’t rotate his players enough and that’s why they are really tired.”

Spurs slipped out of the top four last weekend with the 1-0 defeat at struggling QPR, and with opponents Arsenal, Chelsea and Newcastle all showing good form, Corluka isn’t optimistic about their chances.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if Spurs finish sixth,” added the Croatia international.

“Three months ago they were in the title race with Manchester City and Manchester United. Now they are three points behind fourth spot.

“Tottenham had one of the best teams in England and of course it will be an unsuccessful season if they don’t go to the Champions League.”

Redknapp, however, insisted that tiredness wasn’t an issue when speaking to reporters last weekend.

“Lionel Messi has played about 80 games this season,” the Spurs boss said. “You don’t hear him complaining.”