Redknapp underwent surgery on Tuesday to fix a knee cartilage problem and has been forced to get around in a wheelchair and on crutches for the next six weeks.

The 66-year-old was at St James Park on Friday night to see his team draw 0-0 with Exeter City in their latest pre-season friendly.

And it needed three men - two stewards and a kindly QPR supporter - to lift his wheelchair to his seat at the top of the Flybe stand.

But Redknapp appeared in characteristic high spirits despite being incapacitated until the beginning of the season.