QPR's Redknapp fears Kiwi star Nelsen headed to US

LONDON (AFP) - QPR manager Harry Redknapp fears New Zealand defender Ryan Nelsen is set to quit the struggling Premier League club to take a coaching job at DC United in the United States.

Nelsen has been linked with a player-coach position at his former club DC United, who kick-off their MLS season in March.

The 35-year-old signed a one-year deal with QPR after leaving Tottenham six months ago but, speaking after his side's 1-1 draw against West Bromwich Albion in the FA Cup third round on Saturday, Redknapp conceded the New Zealand star could be on his way out.

"There is some truth in the rumour I'm afraid. Nelsen is very important to us, a fantastic leader, a top player. But he has been offered a job in America and I think there is every chance he might want to go," Redknapp said.