Redknapp reveals Rafael risk

Harry Redknapp admits he was in two minds whether to recall Rafael van der Vaart on Boxing Day.

The Dutchman had sat out Tottenham's previous three games heading into Sunday's showdown with Aston Villa.

It was, however, decided that he was free of hamstring trouble and ready to make a Premier League return.

The gamble to start him paid off handsomely for Spurs as he notched a match-winning double in a 2-1 victory.

Redknapp was delighted to see his selection poser pay off, but revealed afterwards that he had considered hauling Van der Vaart off as a precaution before he grabbed his second of the game.