Tottenham Manager Harry Redknapp

Tottenham Hotspur's Aaron Lennon remains a long way from returning to action, Harry Redknapp has confirmed.

Lennon has been out of action since December when he picked up a groin injury in the 2-0 win over West Ham United.

Due to return to first-team action in February, he suffered a further setback last month and is now said to be "quite a way off" his return.

The England winger had hoped to be fit in time for the World Cup in South Africa, but his participation will rely on a much speedier recovery.

The Spurs manager has revealed his disappointment for Lennon, who he hopes will figure again before the close of the season.

"It must be frustrating for Aaron," Redknapp said. "He's desperate to get fit.

"We just can't get him right. He's had a few goes and broken down."

	Tottenham winger Aaron Lennon

"He's been back to the specialist," he added. "We're taking our time again, building up his strength in the groin area.

"He works every day with the physios and hopefully he will be working back outside shortly, but he's not ready to join the group again. He's quite a way off."

Redknapp is holding out hope that Lennon will recover in time to contribute further towards his side's press for Champions League football, with the club currently sitting in fourth in the Barclays Premier League.

"I hope he's going to be okay (for the World Cup)," he said. "I hope he'll play for us before the end of the season.

"He could suddenly see a bit of light and come back and if he does then he could be ready.

"Four or five weeks, we'll have to wait and see."

England coach Fabio Capello will be desperately hoping that Lennon makes a full recovery in time for the World Cup, especially as David Beckham now seems certain to miss the tournament.

Beckham tore an Achilles tendon in AC Milan's victory over Chievo on Sunday and faces surgery which will almost certainly deny the Premier League legend the chance to become the first England player to figure in four successive World Cups.