QPR boss dismisses Taarabt exit rumours

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Harry Redknapp has shrugged off reports that Adel Taarabt could leave QPR in January and return to Italy.

Taarabt, the star of Rangers’ 2010-11 promotion-winning campaign, ended last season on loan at AC Milan.

He has been out of favour at Loftus Road and available for a move for some time but has been unable to secure a transfer. Taarabt hoped to join Milan permanently during the summer but they did not pursue a deal.

However, his adviser Kia Joorabchian was quoted in the Italian media this week as saying a January move could happen, possibly to Serie A, which led to speculation that he may return to the San Siro.

There were subsequent reports that Taarabt had been given the green light to leave and that Sampdoria and Fiorentina were also interested.

But Rangers boss Redknapp said: “I know nothing about that. The first thing we need is to get him fit to play.

“He had the green light to leave in the summer but there was no-one – Milan didn’t come in for him. He’s always had the green light.”

Redknapp, who sold Taarabt to QPR while Tottenham manager, has publicly criticised the Moroccan on a number of occasions, including during the summer when he suggested he was unfit and had not trained.

Taarabt has not made a first-team appearance since August and recently suffered an ankle injury – a further setback in his bid to return to fitness.

Redknapp added: “I don’t think he’s been out [to train fully] twice [in a row] since pre-season because he’s had an ankle injury and other issues. We need to get him fit.”

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