Kranjcar has role to play in helping Tottenham win trophies

Harry Redknapp has praised the professional attitude of Niko Kranjcar and has once again told the Croatian that he remains an important part of the squad at White Hart Lane.

Kranjcar has found his opportunities limited at Spurs this season and has managed just two appearances in the Premier League, which have both come from the substitute’s bench.

This lack of involvement has resulted in speculation being rife that the 26-year-old may quit Tottenham in the January transfer window, with one rumour suggesting that he could be involved in a swap deal with Everton for Steven Pienaar.

However, Redknapp has spoken strongly on Kranjcar’s impressive work ethic in training and revealed that his hands are currently tied because of the sparkling first-team form of Gareth Bale, who plays in the preferred position of the Croatian.

Tottenham are currently fifth in the domestic standings, one of three teams to be seven points adrift of Chelsea, and are 66/1 to win the Premier League this season.

Redknapp told Spurs’ official twitvid page: “Gareth Bale’s been playing so well: what can you do? Niko likes to play off the left, he’s not so happy on the right.

“You couldn’t meet a better boy and he’s a fantastic footballer, a good pro and just gets on with it. He comes out every day, wants to work. He’s not a problem.”

Kranjcar is unfortunate that Tottenham are blessed with a hatful of attacking midfielders which also includes Rafael Van der Vaart, Luka Modric, Aaron Lennon and David Bentley.

But with Spurs fighting two fronts due to their involvement in the Champions League, squad rotation is going to be important for Redknapp and could mean that Kranjcar is given a fair share of games.

Tottenham have taken four points from their opening two Group A Champions League games and are 25/1 to win the competition. See the full Champions League winners betting odds market.