Redknapp: No substitute for hard work

QPR boss Harry Redknapp believes hard work is the key to escaping relegation this season, and pointed to Barcelona as role models for his side.

Rangers find themselves bottom of the table, seven points from safety with just eight games to play, ahead of their trip to Fulham on Monday.

“We need players who are going to work hard,” Redknapp told reporters. “Barcelona are the best team in the world because they work the hardest. We need workers.

“We’ve got to go on a little run now and see where it takes us. We’re playing well. We were excellent for 45 minutes at (Aston) Villa. We’re playing well. That gives us a chance. With eight games to go, that’s positive for us. There are 4-5 wins for us in the games left.

“It’s almost impossible to predict results in this league. Some will go as you see them, others won’t. It’s so difficult to call.

“We’ve got to go to Fulham and win the game. It’s a local derby, we’ll take a huge following with us. We want a positive result. Everyone has written us off time and again, but we’re still in with a shout in my opinion. I still believe we’ll do it.”

The former Tottenham boss believes the attacking talent at his disposal is capable of firing his side to safety, including the mercurial Adel Taarabt, who has not started any of the last three games.

“Adel is very much in the frame,” he continued. “He’s a great talent. Like everybody, he has to work hard for the team.

“Adel can be a matchwinner for us. He was excellent when he came on at Villa. He’s a big part of what we’re striving for in last eight games.

“(Loic) Remy, (Andros) Townsend, (Jermaine) Jenas – they’re all in good form. Bobby (Zamora) is back and that’s a big plus. We’re in good shape and playing okay.

“Everyone is back from the break all okay. There’s no injury problems. They’re all present and reported for duty on time.

“It’s going to change from week to week, but I still feel we can get out of it. That hasn’t changed. We’re in good form. I’ve been pleased with the January additions. Andros has been outstanding. He’s chipped in with goals and has gained vital experience.”