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Premier League

Harry Redknapp has come out to clarify the issue on his misfiring Russian striker, Roman Pavlyuchenko.

The gaffer has insisted that he is not willing to lose the former free scoring Russian. Pavlyuchenko is expected to seek greener pastures in the upcoming January transfer window.

With the lack of playing time and the World Cup 2010 looming around the corner, It is highly unlikely that the Russian will sacrifice his World Cup chances for Redknapp's whims, with news of Roma sniffing around.

Redknapp explained to Sky Sports: "We've got a strong squad - and we've got Luka Modric to come back. There's more than enough strength in depth"

"I don't want to sell Roman Pavlyuchenko. Technically he's a fantastic talent but he keeps saying he wants to go.

"He's got great ability but he wants to play regularly but it's been difficult with (Jermain) Defoe, (Peter) Crouch and (Robbie) Keane all doing well. It's unlucky for him."

The recent demolition of Wigan will be evidence of Defoe's deadly exploits and why Pavlyuchenko has found himself of the bench.

The 9-1 victory also sees them breaching into the Big Four Territory, and a possible chance of European football next season.

"Anything other than a European place would be a big disappointment," he reamarked.

"We only missed out by one point last season - but it's not impossible to finish in the top four.

"There are one or two other teams - Sunderland are going well, and Everton - but any one of Manchester City, Aston Villa and ourselves I think have got a chance of breaking into the top four. Why can't it be done?"