White Hot Lines

NOVEMBER 2000

30.11.2000  (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Darren Anderton and Les Ferdinand had caught influenza and could be doubtful for Saturday's visit to Manchester United.
  David Pleat has been rebuffing stories that Spurs are interested in £8 million rated Everton striker, Francis Jeffers.  The Director of Football said that Tottenham had not had contact with Everton, despite newspaper reports that Spurs are looking to buy the youngster when he returns to full fitness.  Everton seem to want to keep Jeffers, although it was said they may want to cash in on him, but there are moves to discuss a new deal with the player.  Surely someone isn't spreading these rumours to bump up his new contract terms are they ??
  The News of the World newspaper has paid £80,000 in an out of court settlement before the libel case involving comments made by Alan Mullery was heard. The sum covers legal costs and the case was set to start today with many leading players set t appear to give evidence.  The paper will issue an apology in the matter which revolved around comments that Tottenham would never again be able to sign top players.  Some of the sum agreed will be donated to charity in the shape of the Great Ormond Street Hospital for Sick Children by the Spurs chairman.
  Spurs are rumoured on the Planet Football site to be in pole position to sign Honduran central defender, Samuel Cabellero.  The 25 year old is due in London apparently to complete a £1.1 million deal which could see him replace Sol Campbell should he move on.  The Olimpia player is captain of his national side and has taken part in all their World Cup qualifiers, so should not have trouble getting a work permit - allegedly.
  Sergei Rebrov has said that although he hoped to play with Andrei Shevchenko at AC Milan, he has settled well in London and is coming to terms with his new football environment.  He has found the game very tough - he thinks the roughest league in Europe - and also the speed that games come around hard to get used to.  However, he has said that when a full house at White hart Lane gets behind the team it s like giving them wings (and I always thought that was Red Bull !!) and he is happy that Tottenham have always supported him since his signing.  He went on to add that he already feels like one of the club's leaders.
  Steffen Iversen hopes to be back for the match against Arsenal on December 19th.  His knee surgery has gone well and he is in light training, which he hopes to step up to getting in with the rest of the squad next week.  The break will also have helped him have a rest after playing for Norway through some of the summer in Euro 2000.
  Ben Bowditch has been picked for the England Under-17's and Marcel McKie for the Under-16's, who both play France on December 6th.

29.11.2000  (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Three spare tickets for the Man United game on Saturday at Old Trafford available.  
Any one interested, please contact John at topcockerel@compuserve.com
  Tottenham have been named as one of the clubs chasing Fenerbache's Israeli winger, Haim Revivo.  The international is interesting  Middlesbrough and could be available for £3.5 million.  Aston Villa and Chelsea have been discounted by Revivo's agent, but he did hint that a move to the Premiership is on the cards.
  GG has predicted that when Spurs' walking wounded (Leonhardsen, Iversen and Taricco) return to full fitness, Spurs could challenge for a top six place.
  David Pleat has admitted that a Tottenham representative watched the Espanyol vs. Racing Santander match in Spain at the weekend, but was cagey about the target, saying that a couple of players who had been recommended were being put under the microscope.
  Spurs Youth team have been drawn away in the Fourth Round of the AXA/Times FA Youth Cup to face Stockport County or Watford who play on December 6th.  A date will be fixed after that match has been resolved.

28.11.2000  (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Spurs Youth side beat Bradford City at home in the 3rd round of the Times FA Youth Cup 4-2.  Losing 1-2 at half time, with their goal from Jon Jonsson, they turned it on in the second half to win through goals by Lee Barnard 2 and Andrew Burke.
  Chris Perry could miss the match on Saturday against Manchester United because of an ankle injury picked up in the Leicester City game last week.  However, another site said he hoped to be fit for the game against the Premiership champions.
  Spurs have refused to let goalkeeper Gavin Kelly go on loan to Lincoln City, as he could not be guaranteed first team football at Sincil Bank.
  Sol Campbell said it could be a month before he reaches the level of fitness he is happy with.  He said the match against Leicester City last Saturday was a good start, but he needs to work on his general fitness to get to a proper standard where he can perform as he would like to.
  On the official Spurs website, Pat Holland talking about tonight's Youth Cup tie had this to say about the test facing his team and how many players might make it from the team to the big time ... " But when you look at it who won the Youth Cup in 1970? I don’t know."  And if, you know your history !!!

27.11.2000  (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  The Frank Lampard rumour seems to be off the mark with Tottenham saying their interest in the West ham United midfielder was at it's height 18 months ago and that they have not talked about him recently, while Lampard himself said he is happy to stay at Upton Park.
  A Spurs scout was at the Spanish Primera Liga match between Racing Santander and Espanyol over the weekend.  It is thought the focus of their attention was Olof Mellberg, the 23 year old Swedish star or Sergio Gonzales.  Mellberg is interesting Barcelona, while the agent of midfielder Gonzales said he was not aware of the speculation about his client joining Spurs, but Fiorentina and Valencia were both keen on the 24 year old player.  Another possible one to be watched was the Espanyol centre-back, Toni Soldevilla, who is a young player who has been produced through the ranks at the Catalan club.
  Alan Quinn, the Sheffield Wednesday midfielder, is just one of many young players that Spurs have watched recently according to David Pleat.  He said that Tottenham's priorities lay elsewhere and buying another youngster was not on the cards at the moment.  The Owls have said that the player was contracted until 2002 and they wanted to keep their up and coming stars.
  Spurs have joined Coventry City and Manchester United in watching Millwall's exciting goalscoring machine, Neil Harris.  George Graham is keeping tabs on the young forward, who Millwall signed up on a long contract this summer, but his 14 goals already this season have put him firmly in the spotlight.
  Les Ferdinand has got his hat-trick ball after all.  It was returned to him today after a fan called Capital Radio to say he would leave it at the station for the Spurs striker to collect.
  Midfielder Mark Gower is currently on trial at Wigan Athletic with a view to a permanent move to the Second Division side.
  It is reported that Leicester City are looking at taking a goalkeeper on loan to provide cover for the injured Tim Flowers, as they only have Simon Royce and an untried youngster as back up.  Ian Walker has been mentioned, but they are only looking to make a loan signing and as it is not permitted to have loan deals between Premier League sides this appears unlikely.
  Spurs reserves match against Arsenal was postponed after the pitch at Borehamwood was found to be unfit for playing the fixture. 

26.11.2000  (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Spurs boss is considering a move for Sheffield Wednesday's young midfielder, Alan Quinn, which could see him having to pay out £3 million.
  With Rio Ferdinand leaving Upton Park, the next young gun to follow him could be midfielder Frank Lampard.  He feels let down as the club had said they would not sell their best young players and he could quit the club, with Chelsea, Arsenal, Leeds United and Aston Villa alongside Spurs as his main admirers.  West Ham may be ready to accept £10 million for the England international.
  Ex-Spurs player Graeme Souness speaking on Sky Sports today said that George Graham is the best man for the job at Tottenham and the fans should leave him alone and let him get on with his job.  He thought that although the former Arsenal boss has changed the tactics, they seemed to be paying off now.
  Les Ferdinand has praised the Spurs manager for keeping him going during his time out injured.  He said the manager kept faith with him and encouraged him in his darkest times when he thought about quitting the game, despite calling him one of the unluckiest players he had ever known.  In turn, GG said he was really pleased as Les had worked hard and that it was great to see him turning out regularly for the side as well as playing how he could before the injuries hit.
  Stephen Whalen of Greenock Morton has been attracting the interest of Spurs and Leeds United scouts, with both willing to offer the 18 year old striker a trial before deciding on whether the £400,000 youngster is worth buying.
  Mark Bowen and Paul Price were a part of the Welsh side that won the Masters 6-a-side Home International tournament at the London Arena tonight.  Bowen was top scorer in the competition with 5 goals.  Other ex-Spurs taking part were Chris Waddle, Glenn Hoddle, Steve Hodge, Gary Stevens and Paul Walsh who were all part of manager Clive Allen's England squad.

25.11.2000  (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Spurs beat Leicester City 3-0 at home this afternoon courtesy of a Les Ferdinand hat trick.  For a match report click here.  For reaction, click here.
  Doug Ellis, the Aston Villa chairman, has revealed that there was a gentleman's agreement between the Premier League chairmen in the summer that no-one would buy big money players until the EU transfer system changes had been revealed.  Chelsea broke the agreement with a £15 million purchase of Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and Peter Ridsdale has also gone against the agreement with the transfer of Rio Ferdinand for £18 million.  It might explain why Spurs were so reluctant to spend lots of money on a transfer at the moment.

24.11.2000  (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Stephen Carr has signed a one year extension to his current contract and will be at the club until 2005.  He commented that all parties are satisfied with the deal, as the club came up with what he asked for and he is thrilled as he never wanted to leave and believes he can win things with the Tottenham team.  It is a big boost to the club when they look like losing some of their established stars and Carr is really the one player who the club could not afford to lose.
  Ben Thatcher looks set to return to the first team after suspension kept him out of last Sunday's win over Liverpool.  With Luke Young out injured, Ledley King and Alton Thelwell could retain their places in the side too.  Sol Campbell and Steffen Freund are also in the squad.  Another option would be to play Ramon Vega against the strapping Leicester City forward duo of Akinbiyi and Benjamin.
  Sergei Rebrov has taken a lead from his manager and has praised North London rivals Arsenal and their boss Arsene Wenger.  He said he is impressed with their strikers who have the ability to win a game on their own and he thought Wenger a talented and ambitious coach.
  Darren Anderton has said he is surprised that Tottenham have not opened contract talks with him as he will be free to talk to foreign interested parties on January 1st.  He said that no-one has asked him to go in and talk about a new deal yet.  
  GG has said that Ledley King and Alton Thelwell are the future of Tottenham Hotspur.  He said that the young players are coming through and will be given their chance after a period when that side of the development was neglected at the club.  He said ideally he would have a half or quarter of the team home grown and the rest foreign imports, but that Tottenham had a good group of young players coming through and he hoped more parents would send their kids to Spurs as they are more likely to get a chance than at other clubs.  He also said Spurs should aim for a European place as there is not a lot to choose between the clubs above the relegation zone and those off the top three or four.
  Les Ferdinand has said that he would love to play the flowing, attacking football the fans love to see, but at the moment, it is all about winning.  He said that the side have had to grind out results and that there had been a few too many games like that, but the foundations are being laid to allow the team to flourish ... and that is exactly what GG wants too !!
  Sam Hamman has ruled out buying into Tottenham, even at a cut price rate for the shares.
  Spurs are supposedly in contention with Arsenal and Chelsea for Wimbledon's striker Jason Euell.

23.11.2000  (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Ian Walker is hoping that the club will let him go on loan after Christmas to get some first team football.  He said on the official club site that he needed to play in some games that meant something in front of a few crowds.
  GG has said that many clubs have been shocked by Leeds United's £18 million swoop for West Ham United's Rio Ferdinand.  The world record fee for a defender is believed to go through this week and with the EU deciding the future of football transfers in the nest few weeks, it is hard to credit why the Northern club have made the big money signing.  Even more so when David O'Leary, the manager who is buying him, says he is not worth that much.
  Also on the official site, Stephen Clemence has been talking about the club's away form.  He said it could be a mental thing with belief that they are going to win at home, but going into away games with a different approach.  He said that after the performance of the team against Liverpool, that standard of play must be transferred to the matches away from White Hart Lane.
  Sergei Rebrov will have to learn more about how to play in English football according to George Graham.  The Spurs boss said that even though he is a top international player, he should try to get accustomed to the pace and passion of the game in this country and that he is not the only player to take time to settle into the style in Britain.  He went on to say that he felt that there was still a lot to come from the Ukraine striker.
  Chris Hughton has said that players in his reserve team and also those in the Under-19 side should look at Alton Thelwell and Ledley King and be inspired to emulate their elevation to the first team.  Thelwell said he hoped that the players would get more opportunities as seeing Ledley in the side gives new youngsters confidence coming into the team.
  Spurs midfielder Tim Sherwood has said that he lays the blame for his wrecked international career at Kevin Keegan's feet.  Having played him out of position, the former England manager had left him out and Sherwood fears he may not be recalled with Sven Goran Eriksson coming in as the new manager.
  The official site interviewed Johnnie Jackson and he is aiming to get a place in the first team squad too.  The 19 year old midfielder is hoping to establish himself in the reserves and force his way into the first team reckoning after having played his first games for England Under-18's this season.
  One time Spurs transfer rumour, Sheffield United's Marcus Bent, has joined Blackburn Rovers in a £2.1 million deal.
  Former Spurs keeper, Frode Grodas, may be joining Hibernian in Scotland in the summer after a disagreement with his current German club Schalke 04.
  Naguan Grayeb, the Israeli international turned down by Spurs at the start of the 1999-2000 season, looks like he might be on his way out of Villa Park.  He has started only two games for Aston Villa after being found to have an ankle injury by Tottenham's eagle-eyed doctors.

22.11.2000  (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Sol Campbell made a 65 minute appearance in the reserves victory over Nottingham Forest last night and he felt no ill effects from his first game back.  He is now looking towards the Manchester United game on 9th December.  He said that he intended to make his body stronger in the gym and get it right before he returned.
  Ian Walker has said that Sol's return has given a boost to the club with a return to the reserves and that the club captain would return when he was mentally ready. 
  Willem Korsten swerved a 30 yard pile-driver for his third goal in the reserves match and his hat trick may have just pushed him further towards a first team squad place.  He said that it has been better since he has been playing up front and he hoped to make the move into the first team.

21.11.2000  (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  In addition to the Finnish goalie on trial Spurs have welcomed Ciaren Rafferty, a 24 year old defender from Glenavon.  Both were expected to feature in Tottenham's reserve fixture alongside Sol Campbell at the City Ground tonight against Nottingham Forest.
  Sol himself has had some of his comments taken as indicating that he could well sign a contract to stay at Tottenham.  He said sometimes you get a feeling that this is your club as you are growing up and he would be happy to play for Spurs all day long.  He also said he wants to win things soon and would love to do so with Tottenham.
  Les Ferdinand may have turned down  move to Manchester City because he wanted to stay in London, but The Sun rumours that he might join Hangdog Harry's (Un)Happy Hammers in the summer on a free at the end of his contract.
  Les went on to say that it is about time the Spurs fans gave up on the "hate thing" with George Graham and let him get on with his job without any hassle.
  MEHSTG Man of the Match on Sunday Luke Young had played the game with a broken bone in his foot.  He complained of pain after the Liverpool match and went for an X-Ray which revealed his injury.  His foot was put into plaster immediately and it is said he will be out of action for five weeks.
  With Young's injury, rumours of a move for Honduran international Samuel Cabellero have resurfaced.  Newcastle United and West ham United are both also interested in the 25 year old defender, but the club president is keeping the matter under wraps for the moment.
  Manchester City and Tottenham have both denied that winger Mark Kennedy was part of a proposed deal for Chris Armstrong.
 
Spurs reserves won away at Nottingham Forest tonight by 3 goals to 1.  All three were scored by Willem Korsten.
  Wayne Vaughan, Canvey Island's last minute FA Cup hero, has blasted David Pleat.  He said that he discovered that Tottenham were releasing him in the club programme before anyone had the courtesy to mention it to him.  He said he has something to prove to a few people at Spurs and is hoping his equaliser against Port Vale last Sunday helps the Essex side through to the Third Round where he wants a draw against Tottenham.

20.11.2000  (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  George Graham has come out and said that Spurs fans should prepare for Sol Campbell to leave in the summer on a free transfer.  he said that there was no prospect of selling the Spurs captain before the deadline as the player would not choose to go anyway. 
  The player will return to match action in a reserve team game at Nottingham Forest tomorrow night after two months out with a shoulder injury.
  TeamTalk reports that Alan Sugar could be ready to sell up his 29.9% of  shares for around £1.40 per share equating to £42 million.  It is unlikely that this will happen as anyone buying the shares at that price would have to make an offer for the rest of the shares and could get their hand bitten off in the rush !!  That would mean that the club would be valued at £168 million and that could be the final bill if everyone chose to sell up their shareholding.
  Darren Anderton collected another yellow card yesterday, his fifth of the season, which earns him a suspension for one match.  Luckily, because the Liverpool match was on a Sunday, his suspension will start one day after the Manchester United game and he will miss the visit to Bradford City.

19.11.2000  (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Tottenham beat Liverpool 2-1 at home this afternoon with goals from Les Ferdinand and Tim Sherwood.  Click here for match report.  Click here for reaction.
  It was revealed in the News of the World today, that Manchester City were bidding for Chris Armstrong and not Les Ferdinand as first believed.  Although Tottenham were offered winger Mark Kennedy as part of the deal, they were reluctant to let either striker leave with little cover in that department in the reserves.  David Pleat has blasted the rumours as "paper talk".
  Spurs are taking Finish Under 21 keeper Henri Sillanpa on trial for a week starting Monday.  The youngster from the VPS Vaasa club will be put through his paces at Spurs Lodge, although he said with Tottenham's keepers in front of him he is not sure about a permanent contract.
  GG has confirmed that Stephen Carr will be given a new improved contract soon, following David Pleat's comments yesterday.
  David Pleat has been unveiling some of the movements behind the scenes at the club.  Young keeper Martin Brennan will be released by the club with Charlton Athletic his likely destination, while Ludwig Norbert, the French Under 17 has been asked to be released from his contract.  His brother was recently released by Arsenal. However, Ghyslain Vedeux has arrived from France and will play up front for the Academy side.  Dave McEwen has turned down the chance of going on loan to Kettering Town, while many clubs have been trying to secure the loan services of Gary Doherty.
  Pleat also said that Tottenham had not targeted Sunderland's Kevin Phillips as a transfer possibility.  He was linked with a £15 million move to Tottenham in the papers today with Arsenal and Manchester united also interested after comments attributed to the forward about not getting the international recognition he needs from playing for a big club.
  Leeds United think they can make a successful swoop for Sol Campbell now as they seek to add to their painfully thin squad.  They believe that they can beat Manchester United and Chelsea to the Spurs captain signature.
  
  The rumours concerning Mauricio Taricco returning to Ipswich Town have again resurfaced.

18.11.2000  (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  José Dominguez's old Portuguese coaches have supported Gorge Graham in his assessment of the diminutive winger.  Two of his trainers back in his home country have said that he had incredible technical ability, but that they could not help him put it into practice to make him the great player he could have become.  Arnaldo Teixeira, who coached Dominguez at Benfica, felt that he could have been as good as Rui Costa had he done so.
  David Pleat has once again said he is disappointed that Stephen Carr's contract talks have been dragged out in public, but said that Tottenham did not want to lose him and would offer better conditions so that the next thing that was heard was that he was signing a new deal. 
  Neil Sullivan's bruised hand and Stephen Carr's calf strain are not expected to keep them out of the side to face Liverpool tomorrow.
  Les Ferdinand is hoping that should a goal come his way soon, that it will open the floodgates like it has for Liverpool's Emile Heskey.  He feels that like the young England striker, a goal will help his confidence and if he keeps getting in the right place, then they will come.

17.11.2000  (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  In Manchester City's search for a striker, today it's the turn of Les Ferdinand to come on down !!  The Maine Road side are believed to be ready to bid £2 million for the Spurs forward and hope to tie up the deal before tomorrow's Manchester derby match.  Les has been a shadow of the player he was with Queens Park Rangers and Newcastle United while at White hart Lane and a move could open the door for a new recruit to come in to the Spurs team.  George Graham has denied any approaches and as one of only three fit forwards, he is looking to keep Ferdinand for the time being.  George Graham actually said "It's a non-story so let's knock that on the head straight away".  Not the thing to mention in the same sentence as Les Ferdinand !!!
  GG revealed that Steffen Iversen is back in light training, while Taricco, Campbell, Leonhardsen and Freund have been undergoing rehabilitation training.
  While Jose Dominguez has been hitting out at GG saying he left him no choice but to move on as he wanted him out of the club the day he arrived and had not spoken to him.  The little winger also said that Graham had not kept up with tactics.  The Spurs manager has hit back stating "I've seen Dominguez making comments like that about me this week after he's moved on but I just think they were borne out of his frustration in realising that he's tried it here but is not really a true Premiership-class player."  Catty stuff !!
  It is reported that Tottenham have watched Argentine international Kily Gonzales of Valencia, but have not approached the Spanish club as yet.
  David Pleat has revealed that the agent of Carlos Marchena of Benfica has contacted the club.  The young central defender is looking to leave Portugal in the summer and a number of clubs are interested with a price of around £4.2 million mentioned.

16.11.2000  (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Tottenham are supposedly in competition with Chelsea for Valencia's left wing back Kily Gonzales.  The Argentinian could cost £10 million and David Pleat has been quoted as saying he is a player Tottenham rate very highly, but while Valencia were still in the Champions League, he thought that there would be no chance of the player being allowed to leave.
  Another Spanish player catching Spurs eyes is Carlos Marchena, a 21 year old centre half who is highly rated after starring in the under 21 and Olympic set ups this summer could be worth £5 million.  Barcelona and Bayern Munich are watching the Benfica star's situation, with the Catalan club his preferred destination.
  Stephen Clemence is hoping to replace suspended Ben Thatcher at left back for Spurs' game against Liverpool on Sunday, although Ledley King or Alton Thelwell could come into the reckoning.  Sol Campbell could be back in the Spurs side sooner than expected if his visit to a consultant on Friday gives him the all clear.  A more likely date would be that when Spurs play away at Old Trafford on December 2.
  Further team news on that match is that Michael Owen could miss out with a back injury, while Steven Gerrard is likely to be ruled out with hamstring and ankle injuries.  Robbie Fowler is the only recognised forward who is left standing and manager Houllier may be forced to recall out of favour forward Titi Camara to the side.
  George Graham is convinced that the hard work being put in by the players and coaching staff will pay off in proving that Spurs are not far away from becoming a top six team again.  He said that the level of criticism is surprising when the team had a good start and there have been quite a few injuries.  He said that he is trying to build a side for the future and that the fans should be on the side of the team.  He did think that the myth of Tottenham only having stylish players should be realistically reviewed, as Mackay and Maurice Norman were also among the Double side as gritty, no-nonsense players who were not the type of player typically associated with the club.
  Tottenham have been linked with a move for Celta Vigo's South African striker Benni McCarthy.  The £11 million rated forward is also attracting a lot of interest from Roma, Manchester United, Aston Villa, Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal, Leeds United and Middlesbrough.

15.11.2000  (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Darren Anderton made a substitute's appearance for England in their 0-1 defeat by Italy tonight.
  David Sullivan has denied rumours that he intends to buy Tottenham Hotspur.  He said he may or may not increase his shareholding in Spurs to 9.9%, even though he believed the company to be undervalued on the Stock Market.  The Birmingham City chairman said he still has a job to do with the First Division club.  However, Joe Lewis and the ENIC group may be interested.  Having been turned down by Arsenal, the investment group who hold stakes in a number of leading European clubs, could look at Tottenham again.
  Apparently, Brescia were considering a move for Les Ferdinand, but have decided to go for Fabrizio Ravinelli instead.
  Rumours that Ramon Vega could start negotiating a free transfer away from Tottenham under the Bosman ruling on January 1st 2001 are circulating.  People who have a scant knowledge of the European transfer system have come up with this ground breaking piece of news and say that Celtic and a number of Italian clubs would be happy to take the Swiss central defender if he feels his future lies away from White Hart Lane.
  Former Spurs Academy coach, Ricky Hill, has been relived of the post of Luton Town manager today.
  Newcastle United's Alain Goma has revealed that he was keen to come to Tottenham, but a change in president at Paris St. Germain and then Spurs' refusal to meet the asking price meant he ended up at St. James' Park.

14.11.2000  (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Stephen Carr has been omitted from the Republic of Ireland side to play Finland tomorrow in Dublin because of a slight calf injury.
  Darren Anderton has been left out of the England side to play Italy in Turin tomorrow night.
  Ben Thatcher has come out in support of his colleague on the other flank, Stephen Carr.  The ex-Wimbledon man has said that if he was negotiating, he would make sure the Republic of Ireland international stayed at Tottenham for a long time, as he is not making unreasonable demands.  If a newly arrived member of the squad is saying this, how do the management fail to see the benefits of offering Carr the deal he wants ??  In light of this and other comments which have hit the media, it is reported that Manchester United are ready to test Tottenham's determination to keep hold of Carr.  Who else will be joining the queue ??
  It is reported on onefootball.com in an interview with Jose Dominguez, that Kaiserslautern paid £200,000 to buy out the last 6 months of the winger's contract.  The player added that he will be able to play more of his game as GG didn't want to play with wingers despite the fans love of his style.
  Sol Campbell has said that he is looking forward to his return to the Tottenham team, but fears that he will have to visit the surgeon who carried out the operation to get the go-ahead to resume training first.  The England man is looking at the Manchester United and Arsenal fixtures as comeback dates and he is getting fed up with waiting to get back out there in a white shirt.  He said in the official site that he is right in his body and mind, but has to get his arm right before playing games again.  GG is hoping the Spurs captain will be back for the visit of Liverpool on Sunday !!
  Ledley King started for England Under-2's against their Italian counterparts, but the match in Monza was swamped in fog and abandoned after 12 minutes.
  Spurs reserves got back on the winning track with a 2-0 win over Ipswich Town reserves tonight, courtesy of goals from Willem Korsten (direct from a corner) and Ian Hillier.

13.11.2000  (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Jose Dominguez is poised to complete a move to German Bundesliga side Kaiserslautern today.  The Portuguese winger has been out of favour since George Graham took over and has been seeking a move away from White Hart Lane to get first team football.  The fee has not been disclosed.
  Ian Walker has said that he wants to go out on loan to get first team match experience following his demotion to the bench following the purchase of Neil Sullivan.  He said it was not certain if GG would entertain this notion, but as there are no other experienced keepers on the books, except for Hans Segers, it is unlikely that the manager would sanction a loan deal unless a keeper is brought in for cover.  The rumours linking him with a move to West Bromwich Albion have been denied today by both clubs.  DP said he had had no contact with the Midlands club and their manager Gary Megson said he would not be able to get "anywhere near" the likes of Walker, who is believed to be worth about £3 million.
  Ledley King hopes to start his season off in the England Under-21 side in Italy tomorrow.  He said it would be a springboard for him after breaking his foot in the European Under-21's championship last summer - a competition in which England lost to Italy 2-0.
  Luke Young has told the official website that he is still having trouble with his foot injury, which he picked up in the game against West Ham United, when Joe Cole sank his studs into the Spurs defender's boot.  He said it is still flaring up after playing matches and he is concerned about the time it is taking to clear up.  He also is being wary of playing for the Under-21's tomorrow if he will miss the Spurs game on Sunday.  With Peter Taylor in charge of the full England squad for the Italy match, Young added that it was an incentive to the Under-21's tat so many younger players are being introduced to the full squad.
  Oyvind Leonhardsen hopes to be back in training in four weeks time.  The Norwegian international is hoping that treatment on his thigh injury will allow in to test the hamstring in light training in two to three weeks.

12.11.2000  (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Porn Baron David Sullivan has said he intends to buy Spurs.  The current Birmingham City chairman has a 1% holding in the club already, but League rules prevent him from having more than a 9.9% share in more than one club.  However, he plans to increase his share holding shortly and intends to make a bid for the club in due course.  Sullivan was once a neighbour of Sir Alan Sugar in Theydon Bois, but he would ideally like to have his fingers in a number of footballing pies.  He wishes to take Birmingham City not the Premier League, have an interest in Spurs and also put some money into Cardiff City - his home town club.
The Spurs chairman responded to this on the official site by saying that Sullivan recognises that the club is undervalued in it's share price and if he is really serious about buying in, he should approach the board and they will consider issuing new shares to take him on board.  Alan Sugar said if he wants to buy the shares for their real worth (which is in his opinion £1.40 each) he could buy the club and then claim "Birmingham have a Premiership nursery club." !!
  Stephen Carr is reportedly unhappy with the salary increase offered to him by the management at White Hart Lane.  It is believed that a raise of £11,000 was offered, taking him to around £15,000 a week - still some way short of what other established stars are earning at Tottenham.  It is feared that the discrepancy may lead to him being unsettled with a number of clubs watching the situation and perhaps willing to offer him what he wants.
  Sol Campbell is reportedly more likely to join Chelsea than Manchester United at the end of this summer.  A contract is believed to have been offered to the Spurs captain and while he does not appear to wish to move abroad, the chance to work under Claudio Ranieri at Stamford Bridge is supposed to be interesting him.  We will wait and see !!
  West Bromwich Albion are looking at Spurs goalkeeper Ian Walker, even though he has come off the transfer list.  The Midlands club have come into money as part of Ugo Ehiogu's move from Aston Villa to Middlesbrough and see the former England keeper as a vital part of their attempt to reach the Premier League.
  The two Manchester clubs and Newcastle United are all watching Neil Harris of Millwall.  The high scoring striker has been watched by Spurs supposedly.
  Following David Ginola's comments about the state of Tottenham, Ossie Ardiles reveals in a News of the World interview that he is very sad at what Tottenham have become.  He said as a Spurs fan, he would only have Sol Campbell and Stephen Carr in his team and that the football played is not what fans expect.  He was amazed that George Graham was appointed as his past was at Arsenal and Ossie said that he was Tottenham through and through, so he knew what Tottenham were all about.
  Paul Merson added his voice to the situation GG finds himself in, saying he will never win over the Spurs fans even if he does win trophies at the club.  He went to say that Graham was strong enough to accept this and battle on as Spurs manager.
  An object, which looked like a stone, was thrown at Paul Merson from the Spurs supporters section as he took a corner in the match yesterday.  While it missed the Aston Villa winger, the consequences are yet to be realised as it could be reported by the referee to the Premier League.

11.11.2000  (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Spurs lost 0-2 to Aston Villa at Villa Park today.  For a match report click here.  For reaction click here.
  George Graham said he did not know why Spurs were so lacking in confidence away from home, but that if they could get a win then things would fall into place.  He said that the team would have to go back to basics to keep a clean sheet and then move on from there.
  David Ginola was given a rousing reception by both sets off fans when he came on as a second half substitute.  He said afterwards that he hoped Tottenham would get some good results soon as the fans deserved a good team.
  Les Ferdinand had a clash of heads with Gareth Southgate which forced the England defender to be substituted, but Les struggled on to half-time before being replaced.

10.11.2000  (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Aston Villa fans are set to join in with Spurs fans tomorrow at the match between the two clubs to shame their chairmen.  Doug Ellis and Alan Sugar have both incurred the wrath of their fans because of their financial (mis)management of the club and the plan is to hold up pieces of paper with a big pound sign (£) on it as the players run out the tunnel. 
  Anthony Gardner has refused the chance to go on loan to Crewe Alexandra for a spell of first team football.  The centre half wants to stay and fight for his place in the squad.
  David Pleat refuted rumours that Spurs are interested in a £1 million bid for 18 year old Swede, Kim Kallstrom.  He did say that Tottenham had watched him in a match he played in recently though ... which could have been the behind closed doors friendly at Spurs Lodge :-)
  David Ginola has said that if GG has a bad season he might call it a day as Spurs boss.  The former Spurs winger said that he could not wait for the manager to leave Spurs, so he had to get out to Villa, where he is likely to start on the bench for them tomorrow.  He felt that Graham could not handle the Frenchman's fame at the club, where he had a special relationship with the fans.
  Spurs appearance record holder an former captain Steve Perryman is going to quit managing in Japan at the end of their current season.  Perryman, who has taken Shimizu S-Pulse almost to the top of the Asian footballing tree, feels that they can go further under a new manager.
  David Pleat is expounding his theories on coaching on the club's website.  In one piece he says "When I see good goals scored it is usually because there is good movement in the last 30-40 yards, some jiggery-pokery or trickiness, or even outstanding pace which may lead to a penalty. Quality in the attacking third is absolutely vital."  Well ,that sums it all up.  Jiggery I will tolerate, but I will not stand for pokery !!
  Leeds United are the latest club to express an interest in Stephen Carr should he choose to leave Tottenham if his contract talks are not satisfactory.  However, they, Liverpool and Manchester United should all be aware that he still has three years to run on his current deal.

9.11.2000  (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Ian Walker is considering asking for his name to be taken off the transfer list.  He contends that he acted hastily and that he wants to stay at Spurs, despite the fact that he is unhappy at not being in the first team at the moment.
  Young Swedish superstar Kim Kallstrom will cost Spurs £2 million if they want to bring him to White Hart Lane.  The 18 year old midfielder is rated at £1 million by David Pleat, but he will have to double this to get FC Hacken to release him.  It appears that the youngster has been training with Spurs over the last couple of weeks and it was he who scored the mystery goal in the secret Reserves friendly, when the club would not reveal the name of the trialist.
  Anthony Gardner is happy with his form back at centre half for the reserves despite the 0-3 reverse at Pride Park on Tuesday.
  Darren Anderton is the only Tottenham inclusion in the England squad for next week's friendly against Italy.
  Neil Sullivan has been selected for the Scotland squad to face Australia in a friendly next week.
  Luke Young and Ledley King have been called into the England Under-21 squad to face a friendly against Italy's Under-21's on Tuesday next week.
  Spurs Under-18's have been drawn at home to Bradford City in the Times FA Youth Cup.  The match must be played on or before December 9th.
  Tottenham Under 17's match at Spurs Lodge against Birmingham City on Saturday 11th November has had the kick-off put back to Noon.
Former Spurs winger, Andy Turner has left Rotherham United for a spell on loan at non-league Boston United.

8.11.2000  (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Steffen Iversen hopes to be back in action in December after his knee operation.  The keyhole surgery was to remove a piece of cartilage and he feels that 2-3 weeks should be long enough to recover from it.
  Steffen Freund, however, will be out for another three weeks with a hamstring injury.
  Tottenham are denying that they underestimated demand for tickets to the game at Manchester United, despite 100 unsuccessful applicants from season ticket holders.  The club are saying that instead of taking 3,000 tickets and having to pre-pay for those which might not be sold, they took the next allocation down, which was 2,500.
  David Ginola is hoping to be fit to face Tottenham on Saturday after completing a behind closed doors friendly against Wolverhampton Wanderers reserves.  He has been struggling with a torn muscle injury since he joined Aston Villa in the summer and has yet to play a full match for the first team.

7.11.2000  (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Stories circulating today hint that David Pleat has met with Geoffrey Richmond, Bradford City's chairman, in a London hotel to discuss taking over as manager of the Yorkshire club.  The idea is he would bring through caretaker manager Stuart McCall in due course to take over at the Bantams.  He said later that he had spoken to no-one from Bradford City.  What, never David ??
  Meanwhile Pleat has been saying that Watford would be spoken to if they approached the club through the right channels (a phrase he uses often when talking about attacking play too) about Tim Sherwood joining the Hornets in a £2.5 million deal.  Watford might have some trouble matching their former player's salary at White Hart lane though.
  DP also laughed off attempts to link Spurs to a move for Titi Camara, stating that there is no more interest in him now than when the Liverpool forward was on trial with the club two years ago.
  Not content with all that, Pleat then went on to criticise Stephen Carr for complaining about the contract negotiations taking place.  DP said that the club would not conduct their dealings in the media and although Carr had signed an extension to his contract recently, the club did respect him and wanted to keep him happy and contented at White Hart Lane.  Perhaps not criticising him might do that. eh ??
  Luke Young is enjoying playing as a sweeper in GG's new formation, but fears that it will return to a flat back four when Sol Campbell returns form injury.
  Spurs reserves lost 0-3 at Pride Park tonight to a Deon Burton hat-trick.


6.11.2000  (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Stephen Carr has said on his website (http://www.icons.com/carr/home.html) that he wants to be on a par with other first-teamers at Tottenham after his transfer talks with David Pleat scheduled for Thursday.  He said that if Tottenham cannot meet his demands, it seems strange that they keep picking him for the first team if he isn't worth the same as everyone else.
  Malmo are viewing Spurs youngster Jon Jonsson as a possible target for their coming season.  The Swedish club believe that the 17 year old is unsettled after joining Spurs last year.  The report on Opta Football says Spurs might settle for a loan spell at the club to allow Jonsson some first team football.
  The same site revealed that Niall Quinn is the most fouled player in the Premier League and Don Hutchinson is a close second.  Not surprising when Quinn pushes and shoves to get a reaction, while the former Everton man appears to throw himself at the slightest challenge.
  Ramon Vega thanked God for Kevin Phillips' penalty miss on Saturday.  He said that Spurs were lucky and then went on to make Sunderland pay.
  George Graham and Tin Sherwood are keen to get the club into sixth place to qualify for Europe next season.  Both feel that apart from Manchester united and Arsenal, the other teams can be caught.
  Chris Armstrong said on the official site that he probably couldn't have lasted much longer than his 20 minute substitute appearance against Sunderland.  He said that he had no reaction to his previous injuries and although short of match fitness, he will be looking to build that up as the matches come along. The goal on Saturday was his tenth in his last 14 games he has played (including last season).
  Mark Gower has impressed Wigan Athletic boss Bruce Rioch with a goal in a secret friendly against Bolton Wanderers and might get a chance in the first team this week.  Wigan would want to take him on loan initially, before deciding whether to sign him permanently for a nominal fee.
  Ben Thatcher's dismissal against Sunderland for two yellow card offences has earned him a one match ban which will mean he misses the visit of Liverpool on Sunday 19th November.
  Eidur Gudjonsen of Chelsea might be moving to Manchester City for £4.5 million this week.  If Tottenham are looking for a new forward, then he is in London already and could be a good buy for Spurs as he supported them as a kid.

5.11.2000  (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Birmingham City are interested in taking Stephen Clemence to St. Andrews.  The Spurs midfielder impressed Trevor Francis on Tuesday despite Tottenham's defeat in the Worthington Cup tie.
  The Sunday People report that Spurs have made an enquiry about £4 million rated Liverpool striker Titi Camara, who Spurs had on loan at the start of the summer of 1998.  This price could be £3 million, depending on which source you read, but he has been criticised for his poor attitude by Gerard Houllier and this would not have endeared him to George Graham I would have thought.  Leeds United, Everton, Aston Villa and Manchester City are also interested in the Guinean international.
  Darren Anderton is reputedly asking for £30,000 a week to stay at Spurs after his contract expires at the end of the season.  he said he does not want to leave the club as there is still the hope that they can challenge for a top six spot, but his wage demands might meet some reluctance from the management at the club.
  One report today indicates that Watford might be ready to ask old-boy Tim Sherwood to return to Vicarage Road.  The Spurs midfielder could be used by the club as a make-weight should they wish to pursue their interest in forward Tommy Smith and Watford are watching the stand-in Spurs captain's situation closely.

4.11.2000    (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Spurs beat Sunderland 2-1 at White Hart lane this afternoon with goals from Tim Sherwood and Chris Armstrong.  For a match report click here.  For reaction, click here.
  Mark Gower is on trial at Wigan Athletic for a week with a view to a loan spell there.  He was the subject of an enquiry from Barnet recently, but the Third Division club was given no encouragement over the young midfielder.
  Mauricio Taricco has urged Spurs fans to get behind the team and if they have to vent their feelings to do so after the match.  He said that GG is trying to recreate something successful at Tottenham and the whole squad are keen to put the smiles back on Spurs fans faces.
  Tim Sherwood has said he wants the Spurs fans and everyone at the club to get together to get behind the team.  This is a bit rich from someone who said that football fans know nothing !!
  It was revealed today that Sven Goran Eriksson, the new England manager, almost came to White Hart Lane.  when Keith Burkinshaw had made it clear that he was going t leave Tottenham at the end of the 1983-84 season ,chairman Irving Scholar tried to make Eriksson the Spurs boss.  However, he was two days too late and the Swedish coach had left Benfica and agreed to take over at Roma.


3.11.2000

  George Graham has said that Tottenham will have to rollup their sleeves and be as committed as Sunderland for tomorrow's match at White Hart Lane.
  Alex Fynn, football and finance writer, has said that he believes George Graham will leave Spurs before the end of the season through ill-health.  The arthritis that played him up last season will not allow him to continue as manager at White Hart Lane.  He believes that it is pride and obstinacy that is keeping GG going, but he fears that his need to earn money is not pressing and his wife might persuade him to walk away from the job after seeing his good friend, George Armstrong, die last week. 
  Sergei Rebrov will return to the Tottenham attack after a break through injury with a thigh strain.  Steffen Freund will be out for a month after suffering a hamstring problem on Tuesday night.  Ramon Vega will be left out, apparently to save his feelings, with the Spurs fans likely to get after him with criticism of Tuesday night's performance. 
  The Under-17's match away to Millwall is postponed because the pitch has been deemed waterlogged, but the Under-19's game against Chelsea at home will still go ahead.
  Barry Fry, who was at Tottenham's game against Birmingham City on Tuesday, hopes to take Jose Dominguez to London Road with Peterborough United.  He thinks he is one of the most talented players he has ever worked with (and he should know, he's had Jason (Pineapple Head) Lee in his side) and would like him to join up with his former manager.  It is conceivable that Dominguez might go on loan, but as a free agent, he will probably wait until January to decide where his future lies.
  Stephen Carr has been called up by the Republic of Ireland for the friendly against Finland on November 15.
  Emile Heskey will miss Liverpool's match against Tottenham on November 19th because of his ban for being sent off on Wednesday against Chelsea in the Worthington Cup.

2.11.2000

  News arrives today that "Tottenham are to spend their way out of trouble".  Excuse me for being flippant, but I will believe that when I see it and especially if it is spent on decent players, not the sort of Andy Gray, Kevin Scott, Ronnie Rosenthal panic buys of yesteryear.  Graham did say he would not spend the money on players that he would regret buying in a few months time though.
  He went on to add that he would be happy to introduce young players into the team at the moment, except for the response the crowd are producing towards him and the team.  He feels it would affect their long term development to play in such a hostile atmosphere.
  Kim Kallstrom, the FC Hacken Swedish wonder kid, has won the "Comet of the Year" trophy for the best newcomer of the season in Sweden.  The 18 year old midfielder has had a trial with Spurs and is being watched by some Italian clubs, but he is happy that the season has gone well for him.
  Mauricio Taricco is back in training after his groin operation.  He has started light jogging, but has had no reaction to the surgery.
  A mystery Scandinavian is allegedly on trial with Spurs and played for the reserves in their 1-1 draw with Gillingham reserves yesterday, scoring Tottenham's goal.  The official site refused to name the player (or didn't know it !!) and the cloak and dagger attitude implies that they fear he will be snatched from under our noses if he was identified.  Not that that sort of thing would veer happen to Tottenham.
  Les Ferdinand has said that the players are just as hurt by the defeats they are suffering as the fans are.  He said that Spurs should have done better from the chances they had !!  No, you should have done better with the chances you had Les.
  A shock signing could be revealed before Saturday's match with GG thought to have been in Spain, Italy or France yesterday to watch a game and David Pleat was out watching Cambridge United vs. Millwall last weekend.  So hold your breath for the re-signing of Stephen Slade or Stuart Nethercott !!  In fact the young Irish forward at Millwall, Richard Sadlier, could be the target.  Neil Harris is the better buy in my opinion as we need a Clive Allen style finisher at the moment.
  Steffen Freund could be out for a month after pulling his hamstring in Tuesday night's defeat by Birmingham City.
  Johnnie Jackson has been called up by the England Under-18 coach for the squad to play Belgium later in November.

1.11.2000

  George Graham has said he would not quit Tottenham and that this is a real test for him, the like of which he has not experienced since his early managerial career at Millwall. He said last night's defeat was embarrassing and the defensive display in the first half was the worst since he arrived at the club.  He said he could not believe it.  Join the rest of us George !!  
  Steffen Freund, who limped off early in last night's match with a hamstring injury, hopes that a scan will reveal that is not the same injury that kept him out of the Tottenham side for eight weeks last season.
  It was revealed that George Graham jetted out on a scouting mission after last night's game, although he would not reveal the name of his target.
  Samuel Cabellero of Honduras club Olimpia, has said that he is determined to move to the Premier League.  His club say that talks are 80% complete for the 25 year old defender and the English club in question is rumoured to be Newcastle United, Coventry City or Tottenham.
  Spurs are reported to have been turned down by Jesper Gronkjaer of Ajax, who will move to Chelsea in January after he has overcome his injured hip.

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