Steve McClaren has admitted that he was surprised by the news that Harry Redknapp is to leave Tottenham Hotspur.

Spurs are expected to release an official statement confirming the manager's exit following unsuccessful contract talks.

Former England boss McClaren told BBC Sport that he believes a power struggle between chairman and coach was behind the decision.

"I'm surprised. I'm speculating but there seems to have been a power struggle going on between the manager and chairman," he said.

"If the relationship between a manager and chairman breaks down then you're going to get problems. It's a shame for Tottenham, for the players, for the fans."

He added: "I don't think it's a football decision because what more could Harry Redknapp have done with that team after taking over when they were bottom?"

Everton's David Moyes has been named as the bookmakers' favourite to succeed Redknapp. Other candidates include Wigan Athletic's Roberto Martinez, and Jurgen Klinsmann.