Sunderland 0 QPR 0: I feel more optimistic now – Harry Redknapp

Harry Redknapp said he feels more optimistic about Queens Park Rangers’ prospects of Premier League survival after the Hoops secured a point against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.

The visitors wasted the best opportunity of the first half when Adel Taarabt threaded a pass through to Jamie Mackie, but the Scotland international was unable to beat Sunderland shot stopper Simon Mignolet.

Rob Green replaced Júlio Cesar at half-time, and the England goalkeeper produced a brave punch to clear Phil Bardsley’s dangerous cross before denying Steven Fletcher from close range.

“We worked hard,” said Redknapp. “I felt we deserved a point tonight. I was really pleased with the performance.

“We defended well when we had to. We denied them any chances and we had some good opportunities ourselves in the first half and we could have scored late on when Shaun Wright-Phillips did well.

“There were a lot of positives, so I’m pleased.”

He added: “On Monday, I picked the team and worked on the shape of the team. I thought the midfield looked strong tonight, the three lads looked powerful and bags of ability.

“There were some good points that came out of the match so I feel more optimistic than I did on Saturday. Tonight was good for us.”

QPR face fellow relegation candidates Aston Villa at Loftus Road on Saturday, and Redknapp believes getting the Hoops supporters behind the team will help create an intimidating atmosphere for the visitors.

“It’s all about confidence. That’s the key. I’ve got to keep encouraging them. There’s no point knocking any of them because when you’re bottom of the league, confidence is low,” he added.

“QPR reminds me of my time with Portsmouth. It’s very similar. Both clubs have great supporters and the same type of stadium.

“If we can get them behind us on Saturday, we can respond and give them something to cheer. If we can do that, we can become difficult to beat at home.”