QPR boss Harry Redknapp plays down sacking rumours after Manchester United defeat

Queens Park Rangers manager Harry Redknapp has demanded the signing of a new striker in order to avoid relegation, while also playing down rumours he is facing the sack after his side lost to Manchester United.

After a very balance first-half, goals from Marouane Fellaini and James Wilson condemned the R's to another defeat, leaving them in the relegation zone with just 19 points after 22 games.

A number of reports in the build-up to Saturday's game suggested that the former Tottenham manager had just one game to save his job.

But when questioned about his position following the defeat against United, he said: "It was one reporter saying it and all of a sudden it became gospel. I've never been at a club quite like it in my life but someone has made a bit of money out of it.

"All the speculation was that I was going to lose my job if we lost this game. I spoke to [owner] Tony Fernandes this week and he certainly never said anything like that to me.

Redknapp remains confident of keeping his side in the Premier League but admits they need to sign another striker during the January transfer window – having already secured the services of Mauro Zarate from West Ham.

"If we can get another striker in on loan then we'll stay up no problem."

Despite the result, Redknapp was delighted with the team performance, especially during the first part of the game.

"At 1-0 down we were pushing everyone forward. We got in to some great positions at the end but couldn't quite find that killer final ball.

"We got done on the break at the end – we only had one back as we pushed (Steven) Caulker forward.

"We were looking for the goal and it was always a possibility that they'd break away and score – but the 2-0 final scoreline was an injustice.

"I couldn't be more pleased with the effort and commitment of the players – they were fantastic."