Morrison must justify ‘gamble’ – QPR boss
Harry Redknapp has challenged Ravel Morrison to prove his doubters wrong when he joins QPR.
Morrison, 20, is set to spend the rest of the season on loan at Loftus Road after falling out of favour at West Ham.
Having been shown the door by Manchester United, where his attitude was questioned by Sir Alex Ferguson, he initially made a big impact in east London and was touted as a possible inclusion in England’s World Cup squad.
However, Hammers boss Sam Allardyce wants him out of Upton Park for the time being at least, and Redknapp has admitted taking a “gamble” by bringing Morrison in.
But he wants a replacement for the injured Matt Phillips and points to Morrison’s impressive displays while on loan at Birmingham last season as proof he could make a major impact.
QPR manager Redknapp said: “He’s got fantastic ability, there’s no doubt about that. If we get the best out of him it could make a big difference.
“All the reports are that he’s a decent lad and he’s certainly a talented lad. I spoke to [Birmingham manager] Lee Clark and he loved him – he couldn’t speak highly enough of him.
“He’s got ability but he’s got to do it. People say how good he can be, but he’s got to come here and show just what he can do.
“I just hope he’s not one of those kids you look back on and say: ‘He could have been a great player’.
“I’m not saying it’s not a gamble. He is a gamble. If he didn’t have a problem somewhere he wouldn’t be coming to QPR, would he? He’d be at Man United.
“But sometimes in life you have to take a gamble. If you don’t buy a ticket you’re never going to win the lottery.
“Maybe at this stage we need a maverick – someone who does their own thing at times.”
Reports that Morrison was set to join QPR ironically alerted Redknapp to his possible availability.
A deal was subsequently agreed but Rangers are waiting until next week to formally complete the signing so that Morrison’s three-month loan would make him available for the play-offs should they fail to win automatic promotion.
And Redknapp believes the England Under-21 international is fit and available for selection, despite Allardyce recently indicating that he had complained of a groin problem.
“As far as I know he’s fit and ready to play. Hopefully he’s okay,” Redknapp said.
“He’s an exciting talent and I’m looking forward to having him here.”
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