HARRY REDKNAPP was almost left empty-handed yesterday - despite being named the Barclays Premiership manager of the month for the second time this season.

The trophy was due to be presented at the Staplewood training ground but was eventually handed over at Manchester Airport as Saints arrived for today's big match with Blackburn Rovers.

Peter Wragg, from Arena International, was supposed to present the prestigious trophy, but check-in staff at Manchester Airport ruled that it could not be taken as hand luggage on the flight to Southampton!

But the Saints boss admitted he would gladly swap such awards for Premiership survival.

He said: "My whole life revolves around trying to keep Southampton in the Premier League. It's all I'm focussed on.

"It would be lovely, it's a great club. If we can stay up we can go forward from there. We've got a good youth policy, a good set-up, so hopefully we will stay up.

"We have got seven big, big games and every game is vital. I'd rather stay up than win an award, that's for sure.

"We are going to need to win games and pick up points in others. It's going to be tough but I still believe we will do it."

Saints beat Tottenham 1-0 and Middlesbrough 3-1 during March to record a 100 per cent record and claw their way out of the relegation zone for the first time since November.

Redknapp stressed that the award was a reward for the efforts of everyone connected to the club, including the supporters.

He said: "It's a team effort, the players have done well and I've had a lot of help from the staff. The fans have been great and it's for everyone at the football club.

"The contribution of the others has been massive. People say Harry and Jim but Kevin (Bond) has been terrific, he's a good coach. Rofey (Dennis Rofe) as well has really helped us.

"David (Coles) has done a great job with the keepers. He is an excellent goalkeeping coach, there's no doubt about that.

"He works as hard as anyone I have seen. He's top class and it's a big bonus having someone like him at the club.

"They are good people here and they have made us feel welcome."

Redknapp also gave his backing to Chelsea's Jose Mourinho for the manager of the year award.

"I suppose it's got to be him," he said.

"He's going to get the Championship and he's picked up one cup already."