White Hot Lines

SEPTEMBER 2000

30.9.2000

  Spurs lost 3-4 against Leeds United at Elland Road today.  Tottenham's goals came from Rebrov 2 and Perry.  For a match report click here.  For reaction, click here.
  Les Ferdinand was stretchered off after a clash of heads with Lucas Radebe.  He was suffering from concussion and may have to spend the night in Leeds before travelling home.
  GG described Tottenham's defending as "crazy" in today's defeat.  He was more pleased with the way Tottenham got back into the game after going behind.
  Before the game, GG had said that he wants Spurs to be competitive, but within the laws of the game.  He said that Spurs had improved their disciplinary record and that Spurs fans would be pleased that his side are top of the fair play league !!  However, Tottenham picked up two bookings at Leeds United and Spurs fans would probably prefer to see them win more points than friends on the pitch.
  David Pleat talking on TalkSport this morning said that Tottenham are intending to add 6,000 seats to a redeveloped East Stand to increase the capacity to 42,000.  The club are also interested in bringing Ugo Ehiogu to  White Hart Lane, with both parties awaiting the outcome of the EU's investigation into the transfer system.  He is obviously being groomed for Sol Campbell's position and as a London boy, it s thought he would prefer a move to Spurs than going to Middlesbrough.
  While many consider that Glenn Hoddle will be the next Spurs manager, this will either cost them a lot of money or they will have to wait for two years as he has signed a new deal with Southampton for that period of time.
  Steffen Iversen hopes that the goal against Brentford will lead to more for him.  He said that the first goal of the season is always important to strikers and he realises that although he is playing a different role to last season, he has had the chances to score.  
  David Beckham has revealed that he is keeping a little black book (which will go nicely with his little black dress) of all the people who have upset him and he intends to get them all back for making his life a misery.  So, if you have ever jeered him at a match or given him a bad mark at school or even given him a funny look when he has barged past you without giving you an autograph, WATCH OUT !!  Mind you, just think.  David Beckham's little black book.  Jackie Charlton's little black book.  Who's would you not want to be in ??

29.9.2000

  Spurs are allegedly preparing an £8 million bid for Aston Villa's central defender, Ugo Ehiogu.  They appear satisfied that Sol Campbell will be leaving in the summer and have set about replacing him now rather than later.  
  Nuneaton Borough goalkeeper, Ryan Young, who has been attracting interest form a number of clubs, will not be going on trial with any of them.  His manager has said he does not wish to disturb his progress by making him travel all over the place.  He said scouts are welcome to watch him in action for the Borough.
  The Latvian winger, Andrejs Rubins, may not be heading for Nottingham Forest after all.  Despite being on trial there, the 21 year old is not within the price range of Forest as £1 million is too much for the former Premier League club.
  Sol Campbell has revealed on the Spurs website that his operation has been a success and he is hoping to get back towards a first team place within six weeks.
  Lacking defensive cover, Newcastle United are said to be ready to launch an amazing £5 million bid for Sol Campbell when he returns to playing.  The Geordie side reckon that Spurs will be glad to get something for Sol rather than risk losing him in the summer for nothing !!
  And Newcastle United have agreed a £700,000 deal with Clarence Acuna - the Chile international midfielder who was said to be interesting Spurs in the summer.
  Stephen Clemence has said that he holds no bad feeling about last season's match at Elland Road that developed into a brawl after Lee Bowyer's two footed challenge on him.  He said it is a year ago now and he will be concentrating on getting the three points with the rest of the Spurs squad.
  Neil Sullivan is in the Scottish squad for their World Cup games against Croatia and San Marino.

28.9.2000

  In the Third Round of the Worthington Cup Tottenham were drawn to play Birmingham City at White Hart Lane.  The tie will be played in the week starting October 29 - most likely Tuesday October 30 or Wednesday 1 November.  In the tennis style draw, Spurs will meet the winner of Newcastle United vs. Bradford City should they overcome their third round opponents.
  Darren Anderton has put his quick recovery from injury down to ... doing nothing !!  He had a complete rest and yesterday completed the whole of the reserve match against Watford at St. Albans.  He said eh is ready for Saturday's match at Leeds United should the manager want him.
  Steffen Iversen, Oyvind Leonhardsen and former Spurs keeper, Espen Baardsen have been selected for the Norway squad's upcoming matches in the World Cup against Wales and Ukraine.
  George Graham is concerned about the number of chances his side are missing at the moment.  He said he would be more concerned about chance snot being made, but he feels that a greater percentage should be converted (and not in the rugby sense).
  John Arne Riise, the Monaco midfielder from Norway, is unsettled again at the French club.  Leeds United tried to buy him ,but would not stump up the cash, so would it not be an idea for some of Tottenham's Norwegians to persuade him a move to White Hart Lane is a good idea ??  £6 million should do it.

27.9.2000
  Some good news about injuries at last !!  Darren Anderton is set to return to the Tottenham reserve side tonight against Watford, according to Opta Soccer.  He has recovered well from his injury and the training and gone without any reaction ,so Dazza will be back ... just in time for England v Germany ;-) 
  Stephen Carr has been called up for the Republic of Ireland squad for their next two World Cup qualifying matches.
  Nottingham Forest are the latest club to take a look at Andrejs Rubins, the Latvian winger who played for Wolverhampton Wanderers reserves last week.  Tottenham intend to look at him in two World Cup qualifiers (this after GG said you can't tell about a player by watching him play for this country !!) in October, but with the current level of interest surrounding him, the player may well be signed up by then, with Wolves the favourites.
  Anderton did play in the reserves 2-1 win over Watford at St. Albans tonight.  Goals came courtesy of Willem Korsten and Ledley King.
  Las Palmas have suspended Vinny Samways for a week without pay after a training ground incident with one of his Turkish team-mates.  The former Spurs midfielder hit Derelioglu with a heavy tackle and then smacked him in the face as the Spanish side were having a practice match.

26.9.2000

  Spurs beat Brentford 2-0 in the second leg of the second round of the Worthington Cup tonight, taking the tie 2-0 on aggregate.  The goals came from Oyvind Leonhardsen and Steffen Iversen.  For a match report click here and for reaction click here.
  Gary Mabbutt has urged Spurs fans to let George Graham have a chance to make Tottenham great again.  He said without the criticism he is getting at the moment, he could get Spurs back into Europe with a top six placing.
  Anthony Gardner is coming back to training after a thigh injury and may be ready for a reserve outing to test his progress.

25.9.2000

  Steffen Iversen has told Tottenham the fact that al Spurs fans have known for quite a while - Spurs must get into Europe to attract the top footballers to White Hart Lane.  He said that qualification for the UEFA Cup must be the club's target this season.  On a day when he had a lot to say, he feels that the goals will come for him, despite his current lack of net-busting.  He thinks that he will get on the end of things as chances are still being created, but the combination of bad luck and good opposition goalkeeping is hampering Spurs' goalscoring hopes.
  Oyvind Leonhardsen broke his nose playing against Manchester City on Saturday, but he will be fit to face Brentford tomorrow after his nose has been reset.  He said it will be as good as before, but hopefully, it might be better than that !!
  Steffen Freund has sounded a note of caution about the visit of Brentford and said that all the English leagues are strong, as some other Premier League clubs have found out.  He said that it will be tough and maybe an early goal might help, but Spurs will still have to battle.
  John Jackson, the Spurs reserve defender, has been selected for the England squad to take part in the European Under-18 championships.

24.9.2000

  New Chelsea boss Claudio Ranieri has said that he likes Sol Campbell and would try to take him across London at the end of the season, when he could be available on a Bosman.  He praised the Spurs defender as one of the best in Europe and that he had a good footballing brain.  However, Opta Soccer reckon that he might not want to move to another London club as he has an affection for Tottenham, although they may be able to offer the best salary to him.  
  It is rumoured on the same site that Nantes  have made a move to take Ramon Vega to France for £1.5.million.
  Mark Burchill of Celtic has said that he turned down the chance to move to Tottenham.  The fear of being left on the bench persuaded him to go to Birmingham City so that he could get some first team action.

23.9.2000

  Spurs drew 0-0 in a match against Manchester City at home today.  For a match report click here.  For reaction click here.
  Spurs fan Tim Foster gained a gold medal in the Heavyweight Coxless Fours rowing event in the Sydney Olympics today.  He was part of the crew that took Steve Redgrave to his fifth Olympic gold medal.
  George Graham has said that he admired the way Manchester City battled to keep Spurs out in today's dour battle at White Hart Lane.  No comment was made about Spurs' defending.
  Today's Under 19 fixture against Birmingham City was called off, because the visitors were suffering a flu epidemic amongst their team.

22.9.2000

  A scan on Sol Campbell's shoulder has spotted a torn muscle, which will require surgery.  This means that the Spurs central defender will probably be out of action for around six weeks.
  And Darren Anderton has also had a scan on his groin muscle injury, with the result that he will not be playing again until next month.
  And Willem Korsten will miss tomorrow's match against Manchester City as he is not fit to play.
  Spurs played a behind closed doors friendly for the reserves to take on Barnet.  In an attempt to give a run out to those coming back from injury, Spurs triumphed 3-2 with goals from Ledley King, Neale Fenn and an own goal.  Chris Armstrong finished the whole game and King also played the entire match.
  Ledley King has been described as an old-fashioned number two by George Graham.  By this he means that he is a player who picked up the scraps in defence and brought the ball forward.  In GG's opinion, there are too many players like this and he fears that many defenders will wilt when put under pressure by attackers.  The Spurs manager laments the old days when you could "shake a tree and six centre-halves would drop out".   That is one big tree Georgie boy !!
  Colchester United's Zairian winger, Lomano Tresor Lua Lua has signed a five year deal for Newcastle United.  Spurs had been strongly linked with the young star. 
  Ramon Vega has said he is inspired by the flak that flies his way.  Having heard Ron Noades say that when Vega comes on you know you have a chance, the Swiss international says he is fit and keen to play in the next few matches while there are injury problems to try and establish that he can do a job for Tottenham.  He wants to get back into the national side to and believes that playing against the likes of Weah and Wanchope can only help him do that.
  After being "rested" for the Brentford Worthington Cup toe, Tim Sherwood should return in Tottenham's midfield.  Mauricio Taricco has a groin injury (doesn't everybody), which might keep him out.
  Sergei Rebrov has said on Sky Sports that he is pleased to have joined Spurs and believes that they can win things - even the European Cup one day !!  He said that he had a wish to play in England and turned down Arsenal because of their "second hand" approach to his transfer.  He found Tottenham much more professional and was very impressed by the "leader" (David Pleat) who visited him in Kiev.  The Spurs striker is missing his wife and one-year old son, but they will be joining him soon and he will feel more settled when they have bought a house in the area, rather than living out of a hotel.  He said that it has been hard to acclimatise to English football as every game is hard, not like in the Ukraine, where there are only two or three good clubs.  While he is disappointed in not scoring very much he is happy that the team are doing well and described Tottenham as "my team".
  Celtic striker Mark Burchill has signed for Birmingham City on a three month loan, with a view to a  £1.5 million permanent transfer.  Tottenham have looked at the young Scottish international before, but at £1.5 million may renew their interest.
  George Graham has again been commenting on the poor standard of defending in the Premier League.  He said "Martin Keown is one of the best defenders in the country over the last few years and probably a rare breed nowadays."  That is exactly the sort of thing we expect London Zoo to say !!
  Mark  Foster, Spurs fan and Olympic swimmer, came in eighth in his 50m freestyle final in Sydney today.

21.9.2000

  George Graham has told Kevin Keegan to forget about Sol Campbell playing for England in the two World Cup qualifying matches coming up in October.  The Spurs captain looks likely to be out for four weeks and has gone to hospital to have his dislocated shoulder checked out to make sure nor further damage has been done.
  Although Spurs are struggling to make ends meet with three other centre halves carrying knocks, he has said there will be no plunge into the transfer market.  This is mainly because it is unlikely that Sir Alan Sugar would not give him the money to spend with a change looming in the transfer set-up that currently exists.  It looks like Ramon Vega will continue against Manchester City and Graham has said he has a chance to make the place his, but only probably until Campbell is fit again.
  Darren Anderton will also miss the England matches as he has only just started jogging after his groin injury.
  Willem Korsten will be out for another few weeks as he is only just recovering from his hip operation.
  Steffen Iversen said he is happy with the three strikers playing in the Spurs side.  He claims that they are able to switch around and that with Sergei Rebrov playing in midfield for Ukraine, this is easy.  He said with three forwards on the pitch there is more chance of them putting the ball away !!
  Latvian winger Andrejs Rubins has been taken on a trial at Wolverhampton Wanderers.  The Midland club have snuck in front of Tottenham, who were believed to be in line to give the Skonto Riga player some action to assess whether or not they would sign him.
  Ian Walker is currently interesting Celtic.  The transfer listed keeper might be a big money buy for Martin O'Neill at Parkhead as he tries to sort out his squad after arriving in the summer.  Walker said that Sullivan's dismissal and pending suspension will not change his need to get away.  The ban will probably mean the former Wimbledon keeper will miss the game at Coventry City, but then Walker will be out again.  He said that he does not expect to play regularly for Spurs and so he wants to find another club.
  Les Ferdinand has told Shoot magazine that he intends to quit when he is 35 (next December).  It is thought that he will finish his career at the end of that season or if he is hit by injury again, maybe this summer.
  Chris Armstrong has also revealed that he has just started training again after a groin injury.
  Stephen Clemence is happy at getting a game in the first team, but realises that with Freund and Sherwood in front of him, he faces a struggle to his position.  Having signed a three year deal at the start of the season, he hopes to get a run and improve his consistency within the side.
  The Spurs old boys side will play Haringey Borough on Sunday 24th September in aid of the charity Uganda 2000.  Among the stars taking part are Mark Falco, Martin Chivers, Tony Galvin, Graham Roberts, Paul Allen and Micky Hazard.  The game is at Haringey Borough's Coles Park on White Hart Lane (just over the A10 Great Cambridge Road as you come from the High Road end of the Lane) and kicks off at 4pm.
  Poor old Brentford have been told by their manager that they must pay to replace any shirts swapped with Tottenham players in the second leg of their Worthington Cup tie on Tuesday at White Hart Lane.  Some players exchanged shirts with Spurs opponents in the game on Tuesday 16th September and Ron Noades, Chairman/Manager/Chief bottle washer/kit man, said that it would take two weeks to replace the shirts as they are made in Bangkok.  Now there is a top class outfit ... and I don't mean their away kit !!
  The part timers from Ireland, Bohemians won 0-1 at Kaiserslautern tonight, although they went out of the UEFA Cup on aggregate.

20.9.2000

  The full extent of Sol Campbell's injury has now been revealed.  His dislocated shoulder, sustained after getting tangled up wit the arm of one of the Brentford players on 31 minutes, could leave him on the sidelines for up to a month, missing some important Spurs matches and the England World Cup qualifiers against Germany and Finland.
  With Neil Sullivan receiving a red card last night against Brentford, Ian Walker will have to seize his opportunity to make a claim for the number one goalie's position. Stephen Carr has said that Walks must take his chance and this proves the sense in having a big squad of quality players.
  Carr is sure that the tie will be settled at White Hart Lane in Tottenham's favour.  He said it was a tough battle against Brentford in rainy conditions, but at home, it will be a different matter.  He considers Spurs can push on against The Bees, without being over-confident.
  GG was upset by referee Graham Barber's dismissal of Neil Sullivan for a foul on Paul Evans outside the penalty area.  He said after seeing it on video that it was a harsh decision as the Spurs keeper did not touch him.  he also thought that, even though there were very wet conditions for the match, the ref could have given Spurs some more protection.  he was probably thinking of the challenge from behind on Rebrov after only 10 minutes.
  Ron Noades was not apparently impressed with Tottenham's big money singings.  He said that he was pleased to see Chris Perry on his own penalty spot clearing the ball for a corner.  Ron ... he's a defender ... that's what he is paid to do ... duh !!
  Sergei Rebrov is off to Highbury ... to see his old side Shakhtar Donetsk play in the Champions League.
  Meanwhile, GG has said he will wait to see the best of the Ukrainian after a  disappointing showing last night.  Rebrov had a couple of long shots go close in the second half, but he was below par and the manager said he is still coming to terms with the frantic nature of English football and the Premier League.
  Graham also said that Matthew Etherington, who started but made way for Ian Walker after the sending off, was a little nervous and still has some learning to do.  The former Peterborough United winger missed a couple of good opportunities in the first half of the match against Brentford last night.
  David Pleat has spoken out on the club's website about the fee Tottenham will have to pay for Owen Price.  The youngster was picked up when lots of clubs were vying for his services at a time when he was not attached to a club, having left Charlton Athletic.  Pleat said that Tottenham accept the tribunal's decision with good grace, but he could not understand why Charlton got all the money, while Millwall who had the midfielder for two years, got nothing.  Good grace with a twist there David !!  He went on to say that if the young man keeps his feet on the ground, he could become a very good player.
  Stockport County's 17 year-old Robert Clare has been the target for many Premier League scouts, but he is not likely to be leaving Edgeley Park.  Everton and Spurs are the two main clubs battling for the youngster. 

19.9.2000

  Tottenham drew 0-0 at Brentford tonight in the first leg of the second round of the Worthington Cup.  Sol Campbell left the field with a serious looking shoulder injury and then Neil Sullivan was sent off.  For a match report click here.  For reaction click here.
  The young winger, Lomana Tresor Lua Lua , who Spurs had been watching has almost completed his move to Newcastle United.  The Geordies have agreed a fee of £2.25 million with Colchester United and the player is expected for a medical and to discuss terms before finalising the move.
  Steffen Freund said that Tottenham must do better in the Worthington Cup this season.  He said that last season's defeat to Fulham was not good enough.  The German midfielder said he hoped that Spurs would start this campaign for the trophy with a win to make the second leg a bit easier.

18.9.2000

  Ian Walker has been hurt by the way he has been treated over his removal from the goalkeepers position.  He said the whole thing was crap and he would have expected a manager to have the good grace to tell him face to face when he was dropped.  With all that has gone on previously with other players leaving the club, I am not sure why he is surprised that this is the way Tottenham treat their players.
  ... meanwhile, Crystal Palace have been joined by the the big guns of Derby County, Middlesbrough and Southampton in a battle for the services of the transfer listed Spurs keeper.
  Les Ferdinand has said he intends to play on for another two years.  The former England striker said he wanted to continue and felt that he had another two seasons in him, taking him up to the age of 35 and then he intends to become a manager.  he has already started a UEFA management course and owned up to the fact that he would have been a much better player without all of his injuries.
  Les has also been saying that he and the rest of the team will be taking the Worthington Cup very seriously this season as it could lead to entry to Europe if Spurs go all the way again.
  Spurs could spend up to £445,000 on teenage starlet Owen Price, who they "signed" from Charlton Athletic last season.  The player had walked out on the South London's youth side when he was not happy with their training and many clubs were interested, but he chose Spurs.  However, a tribunal have decided that Tottenham must pay £10,000 now and £15,000 more should the England schoolboy sign scholarship forms. If Price turns professional with Tottenham, it will cost the club £20,000 and then progressive payments of £100,000 have to be paid after 10, 20, 30 and 40 senior appearances.  To add insult to injury, Charlton are also due 10% of any future transfer fee should Spurs sell the player.  The result came about when Tottenham offered £4,000 compensation for Price and the tribunal having stitched up Charlton in the past, obviously felt guilty and decided to make Tottenham pay.
  David Seaman has rated George Graham as the best manager he has played for in football and has criticised Glenn Hoddle's management of the England side.

17.9.2000

  Jurgen Klinsmann was interviewed in Sports First and said that Spurs are one of the top teams in the world.  He said he still looks out for their results and how the players are doing as the club is still close to his heart.  He hopes that Sol can be persuaded to stay as he said losing your best players means you end up winning nothing.  He feels that they have the players to do well and that the club's standing overseas means that they can still compete for the signing of top players.
  Meanwhile, Sergei Rebrov has been saying that if Tottenham do not qualify for Europe, he will be unhappy.  In what is generally taken to be a hint that he might reconsider his future at Tottenham should they fail to get a place in a European competition next season, he said he wants that to happen soon as he is at the prime of his career and wants to be winning things.
  Ian Walker is interesting Crystal Palace, who have a goalkeeping crisis. They have a young keeper on loan from Arsenal, but the Gooners will not let him move there permanently (they have a goalkeeping crisis of their own - have you seen Seaman lately ?), so they may be keen to take him to Selhurst Park.  Whether or not Walker would be happy to drop a division remains to be seen. 
  Spurs are already supposedly lining up a replacement for Walker.  The 20 year old goalkeeper at Nuneaton Borough (one of David Pleats old haunts), Ryan Young is being linked with Tottenham before the ex-England keeper has left the Lane.
  Also being watched by Tottenham is St. Gallen defender Patrick Winkler.  Spurs allegedly had scouts at the Chelsea UEFA cup match against the Swiss side on Thursday.  This unheard of27 year old is being thought of as a replacement for Sol Campbell according to TeamTalk.
  Some time ago, before his positive drug test, Spurs were being linked with Chilean midfielder, Clarence Acuna.  Recently he turned up on trial at Newcastle United (that's a footballing trial not a drug smuggling one) and now it is rumoured that Arsenal are keen to take him on.  Well, of course they would be, because he has an ideal record and Tony Adams could try and rehabilitate him !!
  Tottenham, among others are keen on Ipswich Town's Matt Holland, but the Suffolk club have slapped a "Not for Sale" sign on him.

16.9.2000

  Tottenham lost 0-1 to Charlton Athletic at the Valley today.  For a match report click here.  For reaction click here.
  GG said today that the side's defending was "suicidal" !!  He said an offside helped Charlton take the lead and then it was difficult to get back into the match, especially when Dean Kiely in their goal was having an inspired aftrenoon.
  Jose Dominguez has said that he is putting the security of his family before his own wishes to play first team football.  As his contract runs out in the summer of 2001, he can sign a re-contract agreement with clubs from abroad from 1st January 2001, but he has said that the most important thing for him is to ensure that the future of his family is sound.  If that means seeing out his contract at Tottenham, then he will do that rather than seek first team football elsewhere on a lower salary
  GG said on an interview on Sky TV today that he made his decision to get rid of David Ginola because his interests were going away from football and into the media.

15.9.2000

  Ian Walker has put in a transfer request, which Tottenham have reluctantly agreed to.  The 29 year old keeper has been unsettled since the arrival of Neil Sullivan from Wimbledon and had expressed his need to play first team football.  Southampton could be interested after being linked with the former England keeper in the summer.  David Pleat said that "Ian will continue to give total commitment to the Club. We will now be actively looking for his replacement.”  Hmmm.  Makes selling Espen Baardsen to Watford look a a bit of a mistake then, doesn't it ?
  With injuries to Luke Young and Chris Perry, Ramon Vega has been drafted in and will probably start against Charlton Athletic tomorrow, depending on a late fitness test for Perry.  Alton Thelwell and Gary Doherty, who played together in the centre of the Spurs reserves defence on Tuesday will also feature in the squad.
  Apparently Spurs played a behind closed doors friendly against Peterborough United yesterday, with Chris Armstrong and Willem Korsten featuring.  The Spurs team came from behind to grab a 3-3 draw with Neale Fenn scoring twice and they even found space to play little Jose Dominguez too.  Armstrong might be ready to start playing again soon, while for Korsten he will still be out for some time recovering from his operation on a hip injury.
  Sol Campbell has been hitting out at racism on the continent.  He said you do hear racist chants here, but they tend to be from the vocal minority.  In Europe he said he could not believe the stick handed out to black players from the whole crowd, not just certain sections.
  Steffen Freund has revealed that he liked the new system Tottenham played on Monday against West Ham United.  He said it made it more difficult for The Irons to attack as the three men up front held the ball well and made it easy to go forward.  Although he said it was the correct way to play against West Ham, he is not sure if it will be employed all the time.

14.9.2000

  George Graham has denied any move to take him to Chelsea and has upset many Spurs supporters in the process.  A lot of the anti-Graham brigade saw this as the ideal opportunity to offload him, but he said he is sticking around to see his job at Tottenham through to it's logical end (make up your own punch-line as you feel fit !!).  Cap'n Master bates of the good ship Chelsea Village said GG was never in with a chance anyway.  And Bates would know a good manager when one bit him wouldn't he ??
  Ian Walker appeared on Sky Sports Centre tonight saying he is not happy at being second choice goalkeeper at White hart Lane and that he found out that he was not going to be playing against Ipswich Town on the first day of the season in the London Evening Standard.
  Matthew Etherington has been named as the potential replacement for David Ginola.  With Spurs lacking width on the left, the former Peterborough United starlet is being touted by FourFourTwo magazine as the answer to all Tottenham's prayers.
  Tottenham have appeared to pull out of a deal for Lomano Tresor Lua-Lua, leaving the way clear for the Colchester United winger to move to Newcastle United.  Spurs are content with their pack of young lions signed last season and intend to bring in an experienced player next.  However, TeamTalk tell a different story.  They say that Colchester are likely to turn down Newcastle's £2 million bid and if the player stays at Layer Road, Spurs will come in with a later offer that could be successful.
  Spurs Reserves game against Watford on Wednesday September 27 is now to be played at St. Albans' ground (kick off at 7.30) rather than White Hart Lane, where the first team will be playing the night before.  The match against Leicester City reserves, however, has made the opposite journey and will be at White Hart Lane (kick off 7.00) on October 24.
  Mauricio Taricco revealed that his removal from Monday night's match was for a touch of cramp.  He hopes that his request to come off, in case he got caught against one of the Hammers' players, will not count against him starting against Charlton Athletic on Saturday.  Ben Thatcher might get back should GG want to change things around again.
  Chris Perry might also be in line for a recall at the Valley, despite breaking his toe against Everton.  He has been kicking a ball again in training and might replace Luke Young (out with a foot injury) and Ramon Vega, who could revert to the bench.
  Spurs fan and actor in the BBC comedy "Two Point Four Children", Gary Olsen died today in Australia. 

13.9.2000

  After Gianluca Vialli's sacking yesterday, George Graham has been linked with the job as manager, especially as Chelsea have revealed they do not intend to appoint from within.  Another former Spurs boss, Terry Venables is favourite to take up the post.
  Colchester United's chairman has said that Lomano Tresor Lua-Lua could leave the Essex side this week, with Newcastle United the favourites to sign him up.  Spurs, West Ham United and Bradford City all watched him in last night's league match against Bury until he was substituted.
  Luke Young injured his foot in Monday night's game against West Ham United, when "Talented" Joe Cole stuck his studs into his foot and will have a scan to discover the extent of the damage.  His foot has been put into a plaster as a precaution, but it is a blow for Young, who had his first start of the season in place of toe-injury victim, Chris Perry.
  Spurs are giving a trial to Andrejs Rubins, the Latvian striker/winger, who was on trial with Arsenal recently, but failed to persuade them to take him on permanently.  The 21 year old from Skonto Riga might have problems obtaining a work permit should Tottenham want to sign him up.  
  Darren Anderton says that his abdominal muscle injury is healing quicker than he thought it would.  He said there was a lot of bleeding, but he hopes to be stretching again this week, after resting last week.  Once he is OK to do that, he will be ready to start kicking a ball again.

12.9.2000

  Spurs reserves lost 1-2 to Chelsea reserves at White Hart Lane tonight.  Spurs goal was from Neale Fenn.
  Millwall's French/Belgian midfielder Christophe Kinet has attracted interest from scouts of 14 clubs, including Tottenham.  He was watched in the Lions latest match and the 20 year old has featured prominently in their successful start to their Second Division campaign.
  Les Ferdinand has re-iterated that if Tottenham want to do well, they cannot afford to lose Sol Campbell.  he also said the side were enjoying being in the top five, but would not get carried away.  He said he was pleased to be in the side and looking to improve his match fitness, but that if the team kept winning after playing better in the second half, he would be happy.
  Manager George Graham, meanwhile, has been urging Campbell to play to his striking potential more often.
  Gary Mabbutt has said that he believes Spurs can get back into the top echelon of English football with the current side.  He thinks with another couple of players added t the squad, Spurs could make the top six by the end of the season.
  Steffen Freund revealed that he almost became a spy for the East German secret police (the Stasti).  He said that the Stasi came to him to ask him to inform on his fellow players and he refused, but had to sign a document to say that the interview never took place !!
  David Ginola has told Sergei Rebrov to enjoy his success at Tottenham as in three years time, GG might change his mind and get rid of him, like he did to the Frenchman.
  It is reported that Newcastle United have been given first refusal on Lomano Tresor Lua-Lua of Colchester united with a view to a £2 million transfer.  Spurs, West Ham United and Middlesbrough are all watching the situation closely.
  Spurs Under-19's lost 2-3 at Spurs Lodge to Arsenal this afternoon.  Goals from Yannick Kamanan and George Snee were wiped out by one goal from the visitors and two unfortunate own goals by Spurs.

11.9.2000

  Spurs beat West Ham United 1-0 at White Hart Lane tonight with a goal by Sol Campbell.  For a match report click here. For reaction click here.
  Tim Sherwood is trying to force his way back into the England reckoning.  He believes that if he continues to perform for Tottenham, he can get into the England squad for the World Cup qualifiers.
  Spurs have been linked with Finnish midfielder Hannu Tihinen, who has been playing  for Viking Stavanger in the Norwegian League.
  In an after-match interview on Sky, Sol Campbell evaded questions about his future and when it was put to him whether he would be at Spurs after the summer, he replied, "I'm here".  It appears that means "no".
  In tonight's match programme, David Pleat revealed he had been out to South America and met Spurs' Argentinian striker Ricardo Villa. 

10.9.2000

  Stephen Carr has told reporters that he is still a long way apart from Tottenham in agreeing a new contract and that it will depend somewhat on whether or not Sol Campbell stays.  He said if Sol leaves for whatever reason, it would show that the ambition to keep or attract top players was not there.
  Sol himself has been saying that Paolo Di Canio is the big threat in tomorrow night's match against West Ham United and Ledley King has been expounding the merits of the talented Joe Cole, who he played with at under-21 level for England.  
  Tottenham manager George Graham has said that he does not want to sell Les Ferdinand even though other clubs are showing interest in the Spurs striker.
  Watford have slapped a staggering price tag of £7 million on young striker Tommy Smith.  This is thought to be sufficient to ward off interest from Tottenham and Leeds United.
  Apparently, the Sunday Mirror report that Torino might be ready to take Ramon Vega back to Italy by making a move for the Swiss international centre-half.
  David Ginola, who is making the headlines even when he is off the pitch lately, has now attacked Spurs fans.  He said that when they were jeering Chris Armstrong last season he applauded the striker hoping that the crowd would follow suit, but this did not happen and he began to question his own relationship with the Tottenham supporters.

9.9.2000

  David Ginola has revealed in The Sun newspaper today that the club refused an offer from Manchester United for his services.  Apparently, the excerpt from his book, tells of a call to the club after the Kaiserslautern defeat, asking to speak to him, but Alan Sugar spoke to Ginola at the chairman's house to tell him that he had just signed a contract and he was a part of Tottenham's plans.  He said Tottenham would not let him go to Old Trafford at any price and even prevented him playing in Sir Alex Ferguson's testimonial.  Sugar also warned him not to be taken in by George Graham's mind-games.
  Darren Anderton could be missing out on £5,000 a week as he is injured and part of the one year extension he signed, was that he was on a pay-as-you-play deal.  So, no play - no pay !!
  Steffen Freund said it is about time the side beat West Ham United for the first time since he arrived at Tottenham.  He also added that the arrival of Stephen Clemence against Everton was a vital moment in the game and he hopes that Clem goes on to establish himself in the side.

8.9.2000

  Steffen Iversen is happy about the way the season has started and is glad that Spurs have some fit strikers so that he can have a rest !!  But although he started as a substitute on Tuesday against Everton, he was frustrated that he was not playing once the game got underway.
  Les Ferdinand has added his voice to the lobby of opinion that Spurs cannot keep giving other sides a goal or two start.  He was not happy with his own performance and said that Spurs must make White Hart Lane a fortress.  Bang goes the money for increasing the capacity !!
  Tottenham's Worthington Cup ties against Brentford in the second round will be played with the first leg away on Tuesday 19th September at 7.45 p.m. and the home second leg on Tuesday 26th September again kicking off at 7.45 p.m.
  Apparently TeamTalk say that Spurs had a scout at Cheltenham Town to watch Watford's Tommy Smith in action last Tuesday.  The England under-21 striker has been linked with Spurs in a £2.5 million deal after he failed to sign a  new contract.  Manager Graham Taylor said there had been no contact about the player and even if there was, they would not like that young man sold.
  Ipswich Town have made an approach for a foreign full-back and it is thought this could be a renewed attempt to tempt Mauricio Taricco back to Suffolk.  Having just got back into the Spurs side, it is unlikely that he would want to make a move right now.  It is said that he is rated at £5 million.
  Ben Thatcher has honestly appraised his start to the season and realise he must improve his performances.  He said that he was especially disappointed with his games at Newcastle United and against Everton last week.  He suffered chest and side injuries in that latter match and hopes to be fit against West ham United.  He must have had a knock on the head because he went on to add that Harry Redknapp is one of the best managers in the game !!
  Early team news for Monday's game against West Ham United is that Darren Anderton is definitely out and Oyvind Leonhardsen comes in for him on the right side of midfield, with Stephen Clemence filling in on the left.  Matthew Etherington could be in contention, but is more likely to be on the bench.  Ben Thatcher is struggling to overcome a chest injury sustained in a clash with Steve Watson in Tuesday's defeat of Everton.  Taricco stands by to replace him.  Willem Korsten is unavailable for selection.
  Anyone intending to see Spurs under-19's game against Arsenal at Spurs Lodge tomorrow should note the game is OFF.  It has been rescheduled for next Tuesday 12th September at 2.00 pm.
  Spurs Reserves play Chelsea on Tuesday 12th September at White Hart Lane with the kick-off at 7.00 pm.  The entrance is FREE and the other games at the Lane will also be gratis to get into.  Why not go along and get something out of the club for nothing !!

7.9.2000

  Tottenham have been drawn against Brentford (again) in the Worthington Cup 2nd round to be played during the weeks starting 18th and 25th September.  This could be a good omen as they were Tottenham's first opponents in the run that lead to winning the Worthington Cup in 1999.  And don't forget the year ends in ...
  Colchester United's flying winger Lomano Tresor Lua Lua scored a hat-trick last night at Loftus Road against Queens Park Rangers in front of watching Tottenham scouts.  The young Zairian forward is attracting a lot of attention, including Middlesbrough now apparently, but Spurs might make a move before long to tempt the East End bred starlet before the price goes too high.
  Meanwhile ClubCall report that Steffen Iversen has been the target for a £3 million bid from Reggiana of Italy.  Ha !! 
  Stephen Carr has warned that if Tottenham keep giving opponents head-starts, then when we play a quality side, there will not be a way back into the match.
  Ben Thatcher, who was replaced during Tottenham's 3-2 win over Everton on Tuesday, will have a precautionary X-ray after clashing with Steve Watson in the first half of the game.  He had trouble breathing after being accidentally caught by Watson in the throat during a heavy challenge.  He could miss out on Monday's televised game against West Ham United.
  Willem Korsten could also be unavailable for the match against The Irons because of a hip injury.
  West Ham United are looking at a £1 million deal to take former Spurs midfielder Darren Caskey to Upton Park.  He is out of contract at Reading in the summer and the Irons might try to steal him away from the Biscuitmen before he leaves them on a Bosman without a crumb of comfort.
  The Irons also feel that Matthew Lockwood of Leyton Orient could be the man to replace Stuart Pearce and although Spurs had looked at the left-back last season, they appear to have been happier to bring in Thatcher.
  Also, while we are on the subject of West Ham United, a report on Soccerupdate indicates that Valencia are keen on former Spurs target, Frank Lampard Junior for £8 million.

6.9.2000

  Darren Anderton, who limped out of the action after 17 minutes last night, has another groin injury.  He pulled it in the first minute of the match taking a corner and a scan has shown a tear of the muscle to the right of the groin.  It is not the abductor muscle that he has had problems with previously.  The London Evening Standard reports that he must rest for a week to see if it is healing and then he will be out for three weeks more after that, if all goes well.  This rules him out of the next few Spurs games and also the next two World Cup qualifiers for England.  He is targeting the Spurs match against Coventry City on October 14 as his comeback.  
  GG has said that Sergei Rebrov can take over as the Spurs favourite from the now-departed David Ginola.  He said his touch and speed of thought are features rarely seen in the Premier League these days, even though the defending is not of the highest standard.
  Spurs Reserves drew 0-0 away to Wimbledon tonight.

5.9.2000

  Tottenham beat Everton 3-2 at White Hart Lane tonight.  Goals came from Sergei Rebrov 2 (1 pen) and Les Ferdinand.  For a match report click here. For reaction click here.
  Steffen Iversen has said that he is worried that if the partnership between him and Sergei Rebrov does not start producing goals for them, he will be replaced by Les Ferdinand or Chris Armstrong.  He also said that Spurs will have to pay like they did against Ipswich Town on the first day of the season to move up the table in their next four games.
  Fulham are expected to make a £1.5 million bid for Les Ferdinand to bulk up their push for promotion from Division One this season.  Apparently, Manchester City have also previously enquired about Les' availability earlier this season.
  Luke Young has warned Tottenham to be careful about Everton's England Under-21 striker Francis Jeffers.  He said that he is very skillful and Spurs must not rush into challenges like last season when the little forward won two penalties at White Hart Lane.  Young said he was waiting for an opportunity to break into the first team to play well and make it difficult for George Graham to drop him.
  Former Tottenham Winger, Garry Brady, has moved from Newcastle United to Norwich City on a two month loan spell.

4.9.2000

  George Graham has predicted chaos should the present transfer system be abolished by FIFA and UEFA.  He said that no club is likely to shell out big transfer fees if they may get nothing back on their investment.
  He also hit out at the silence from Sol Campbell about his contract at Tottenham.  He has accepted that the Spurs captain will not sit down to talks and would not accept a move away from the club, he just wishes to see out his contract.
  All ten of the Spurs players on international duty came back unscathed after their mid-week exertions.  However, Willem Korsten is not expected to be due for selection for the match because of injury.   Meanwhile, Everton have been hit by a plague of injuries to their team and may be without a recognised central defender through injury and suspension.
  Football pundit, Mark Lawrenson, has been quoted in the Mirror as saying that he would build a back line around Sol Campbell for England and urged Kevin Keegan not to play him at right back.
  Chris Perry says that Tottenham's home form is the key to their season and the side will be going all out to win every match at White Hart Lane.

3.9.2000

  Sol Campbell is rumoured by the Sunday Mirror to be at the centre of a £20 million bid from Italian giants, Juventus.  David Pleat has said there is no substance to this story (nor any of the other ones below come to that).
  According to which paper you read, Les Ferdinand is a target for a move away from White Hart Lane.  The News of the World reports that Birmingham City want the Spurs forward and hope to raise the £1 million needed and Les is looking for a move out of Tottenham.  Meanwhile, in the Sunday People, Les was the subject of a £1 million bid from Glasgow rangers, who looked to strengthen their squad ahead of the Champions League deadline, but Tottenham said no because they want to keep him in the squad.
  The People also report that Spurs are considering a £2.5 million bid for Watford's England under-21 striker Tommy Smith.  Leeds United (surprise, surprise) are also keen on the young forward, but Spurs are believed to be the favourites to sign him should he leave Vicarage Road after refusing to sign a new contract. 
  Tottenham have been joined by West Ham United and Arsenal in the chase for Colchester United's Lomano Lua-Lua, according to today's papers.  Ipswich Town have dropped out of the race for the Zaire born winger as £1 million was too much for them to spend.
  Tottenham's interest in Sheffield Wednesday midfielder Alan Quinn is being discouraged by the Yorkshire club.  The player is under contract at the club and they have no intention of letting him go to Spurs or Everton, who also have enquired about his availability.
  Speculation is also circulating that Tottenham are interested in Dundee's Scottish Under 21 international defender Lee Wilkie.  Leeds and Wolves are also being linked with the £1 million rated youngster.

2.9.2000

  Sol Campbell and Darren Anderton both played for England against France in the friendly in Paris tonight that ended 1-1.  Sol took over the captain's armband when Adams was substituted at half-time, while Dazza went off midway through the second half.
  Stephen Carr played for the Republic of Ireland in their 2-2 against Holland tonight in their in the World Cup qualifier.  He had a hand in setting up the first Irish goal.
  Sergei Rebrov played for Ukraine in their shock 1-3 defeat at the hands of Poland in the World Cup qualifying tie.
  Neil Sullivan kept a clean sheet for Scotland in their 1-0 away win against Latvia.
  Both Oyvind Leonhardsen and Steffen Iversen were in the Norway side which drew their World Cup qualifier 0-0 against Armenia in Oslo.
  Steffen Freund has revealed that his room-mate Sergei Rebrov is keen to learn English and all he wants to do is score for Tottenham.
  A Spurs XI are due to play Stevenage Borough on Tuesday 10th October at Broadhall Way.
  New old Everton signing Duncan Ferguson is out of the Spurs game at White Hart Lane on Tuesday.
  Ex-Spur Phil Gray, now of Burnley, scored for Northern Ireland in their 1-0 win over Malta in their World Cup qualifying match.

1.9.2000

  Sol Campbell and Darren Anderton are both in the England team for tomorrow's friendly against France at the Stade de France in  Paris.
  Stephen Carr could face a Dutch side tomorrow for the Republic of Ireland that includes the startlingly named Jan Vennegoor-of-Hesselink.
  Luke Young says that he hopes to get a run in the first team at Tottenham to promote his selection for the England Under-21's.  Having scored the first goal in the friendly against Georgia last night and being substituted at half-time, he wants to be laying regularly at the top level to help him secure an international place in the qualifying tournament for the next Under-21 tournament.
  John  Piercy has revealed that it is a make or break season for him at Tottenham.  He hopes to maintain his consistent goalscoring and general level of performance as the season progresses to impress the staff at Spurs, where he is in the last year of his contract.  Reserve Team coach Chris Hughton says that he is good enough to play first team football, but he must be more consistent.
  Lomano Tresor Lua Lua the young Colchester United winger has had a £7 million price tag put on his head by manager, Steve Whitton.  
Tottenham are allegedly interested, along with Newcastle United and Derby County, in the £3 million rated Barnsley centre-half Chris Morgan.

Back to homepage