Redknapp launched pre-Panorama claim

Harry Redknapp launched a libel claim against the BBC even before the Panorama programme was screened.

The Portsmouth manager had at one point insisted he would not involve his lawyers but the BBC were served with a libel claim in the lead-up to Tuesday night's screening. The programme went on to allege Redknapp was involved in tapping up Blackburn defender Andy Todd, a claim he strongly denies.

Now a BBC internal memo, which has been seen by PA Sport, revealed Redknapp's solicitors sent the corporation a libel claim over reports that appeared in the press speculating about what the Panorama programme would allege.

Redknapp's solicitors claimed leaks to the press had originated from within the BBC, a claim which the BBC has already denied.

Having now seen the Panorama programme Redknapp said: "I don't think there is anything in it that I need to worry my lawyer about."

His former assistant Kevin Bond, now assistant manager at Newcastle, on Wednesday announced he has issued a libel claim against Panorama for saying he would consider receiving payments from a proposed new football agency.