Diakite ‘back in the picture’ at Rangers

Harry Redknapp has dismissed reports linking Samba Diakite with a move to Watford.

It was claimed the QPR midfielder was discussing an initial loan move to Vicarage Road with a view to a permanent deal at the end of the season.

But Diakite, who has been consistently overlooked by Redknapp, is back in his plans after impressing in training and could feature against Huddersfield this weekend because Joey Barton is out with a thigh injury.

And Rangers boss Redknapp insisted the Mali international would not be leaving.

“No, he’s not. He’s in the squad for tomorrow,” said Redknapp.

“He played for the reserves in midweek and played very well. He’s a player that might be very much back in the picture again now.

“Hopefully we can get him going and get the best out of him, and if we can he’s a very good player.”

Yossi Benayoun is struggling with a groin problem and looks likely to miss the Huddersfield game, while Jermaine Jenas is still unavailable.

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