Redknapp calm over Johnson future

Lauren has stepped in in place of the injured Johnson

Portsmouth boss Harry Redknapp says Lauren is the ideal replacement for Glen Johnson, should the full-back return to Chelsea at the season's end.

Redknapp said: "Glen has done a great job for us. Who knows, he could come back (on loan) next season. Who can tell what will happen in the summer?

"He is Chelsea's player, he belongs to them and I haven't even spoken to them about his future beyond May.

"But bringing Lauren in has been a great boost - he's a terrific player."

Johnson is presently sidelined with a knee injury which has given former Arsenal man Lauren the chance to deputise at full-back, after initially turning out in midfield following his January move to the south coast.

The 30-year-old was outstanding in the wins over Manchester United and Newcastle.

While without him at Watford on Easter Monday, Pompey's defence collapsed to a 4-2 defeat against the Premiership's bottom club.

"You don't get to play for Arsenal in all those games and win all the trophies he has won without being a top-class player," Redknapp added.

"We had serious competition to sign him. West Ham were texting his agent with better offers and saying whatever they (Pompey) pay you we will pay you more.

"But he didn't want to go there because he thought they might be relegated. That was the key. He didn't want to play in the Championship."