Hoddle: Redknapp is a steal

Redknapp has not appeared since October

Glenn Hoddle believes Spurs have saved themselves up to £7m after capturing former Liverpool skipper Jamie Redknapp on a free transfer.

The 28-year-old England international has signed a four-year deal at White Hart Lane after being released from his Anfield contract.

Rednapp was signed by then Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish for £350,000 in January 1991 from Bournemouth the then club managed by father Harry .

The midfielder went on to play more than 200 top flight games for the Anfield club, winning 17 England caps.

In today's market you are talking about six or seven million pounds because he can pass the ball and he can play

Spurs boss Glenn Hoddle

Spurs manager Hoddle feels he has scooped a bargain and told the club's official website: "We're absolutely delighted to have him on board.

"He's a class player, one I had in the England squad when I was manager, an excellent professional.

"I'm sure Spurs fans out there, within four months of next season when he's settled and playing, will be saying he's one of the best signings the club has made!

"Especially on a free transfer.

"In today's market you are talking about six or seven million pounds because he can pass the ball and he can play.

Rednapp played only eight games for Liverpool this season

"He's a Spurs player, a player in the style and traditions of the club and I'm sure the fans will enjoy watching him."

Redknapp has figured in just eight games for Liverpool in yet another injury-hit season.

He has not played for the first team since the Champions League group match against Borussia Dortmund at Anfield on 30 October.

However, Hoddle insists he has taken the midfielder's past problems into consideration.

The former England manager cites the example of two current Tottenham stars as how players can come back from long-term setbacks.

He added: "He's had a few injuries and we had to be aware and monitor that. But I'm confident he's over them.

"In many ways, I was asked the same questions about Darren (Anderton) and Les (Ferdinand) at the start of this season.

"I think Les has had his best season since he's been here and Darren the same, he's almost got himself into the World Cup squad.

"Let's see what happens in 12 months - he could be the steal of the decade."

Coincidently Redknapp began his career at Spurs as a schoolboy before turning professional at Bournemouth.

"I'm positive about things - I've had injuries but I'm fit now and I want to come and do a good job for Tottenham," Redknapp told Clubcall.

"I've had a thorough medical and passed it, which was a very good sign."