Harry Redknapp has spoken about the despair Michael Dawson felt after damaging ligaments in England's win against Bulgaria.

The Tottenham manager revealed that the defender was devastated after suffering ankle and knee damage and is certain to miss the start of the club's Champions League campaign this autumn.

The 26-year-old centre-half was carried off in the second half of the 4-0 win after falling awkwardly following an innocuous challenge.

Redknapp spoke with Dawson and revealed to the Sunday Mirror: "The boy is absolutely devastated. It is a massive blow for him and the club.

"I'd like to say something positive about the situation, but other than we initially thought it was a lot worse and he could be out for the season, what can I say?

"We have no idea what is going to take longer to heal, his ankle or his knee. But we are talking months, not weeks."

It was reported that Dawson had ruptured his cruciate ligaments and it was feared that he could be ruled out for the season, but Redknapp has allayed those fears.

"It couldn't have come at a worse time for us with crucial games coming thick and fast.

"I'm gutted for him at a time when he has quite rightly been given a chance to stake a claim for regular first-team football for England.

"As for Spurs, words fail me. He is the heartbeat and soul of this club.

"But thank God I went and got William Gallas on a free transfer. It's looking an even better deal now."