LONDON (Reuters) – Queens Park Rangers defender Ryan Nelsen is considering a coaching role in the United States in what would be a major blow for the Premier League club’s battle against relegation.

"He has been offered a job in America and there is every chance that he might want to go," manager Harry Redknapp told reporters after the Londoners’ 1-1 draw at home to West Bromwich Albion in the third round of the FA Cup on Saturday.

New Zealand's Ryan Nelsen is seen prior to their international friendly football match against Australia in Melbourne May 24, 2010. REUTERS/Mick Tsikas

"He wants to be a manager and it’s a chance for him to go and manage a club," added Redknapp.

New Zealand captain Nelsen, 35, joined QPR from Tottenham Hotspur on a one-year contract in June. He played for D.C. United in Major League football between 2001 and 2005.

"He’s just one of the best pros I’ve ever met in my life," said Redknapp of a player he signed for Tottenham from Blackburn Rovers. "Fantastic player, great trainer, leader.

"He’s a massive part of your team. To lose him would be a massive blow for us."

Rangers are bottom of the Premier League, level with Reading on 13 points from 21 games.

(Reporting by Alan Baldwin, editing by John Mehaffey)

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