QPR boss Harry Redknapp refuses to write off Rio Ferdinand.

The manager insists the former England defender will get a chance to reclaim his place over the festive period.

He said: "It's been hard for Rio and it's not been easy for me when you respect someone like I respect Rio.

"It was hard when I left him out but Richard Dunne has been fantastic for us and I moved away from playing three at the back to playing with a back four and it sort of scuppered the plans with Rio at the time.

"He's here and he can still play some part over the holiday.

"Rio could be back in the team next week and hopefully he could get back in and not go out of it again - I haven't written him off by any means."