Harry Redknapp appointed as Birmingham boss

Birmingham City have appointed Harry Redknapp as their new manager following the resignation of Gianfranco Zola.

The Italian was appointed at St Andrew’s in December after the sacking of now-Derby boss Gary Rowett but resigned after the 2-0 defeat to Burton Albion on Monday which left the Blues three points above the Sky Bet Championship relegation places.

The club have now confirmed that Redknapp, who at the age of 70 is the oldest manager in the EFL, has replaced Zola, who won just twice in 22 league matches.

Redknapp said the appointment is until the end of the season but if the Blues avoid relegation then he and the club will talk again. Steve Cotterill will also be part of the backroom staff.

A statement on the Birmingham website said: “The club is delighted to announce that Harry Redknapp is Blues new manager.

“The vastly experienced Redknapp has agreed to replace Gianfranco Zola, who resigned on Monday.”

Redknapp started his managerial career with Bournemouth before spending eight years in charge at West Ham.

He enjoyed two spells in charge at Portsmouth, either side of a stint at Southampton, and led Pompey to an FA Cup triumph in 2008.

He also led Tottenham to Champions League qualification and guided Queens Park Rangers to the Premier League via the play-offs in 2014.