White Hot Lines

Monday 31.12.2001   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Kasey Keller said today that he is glad to be playing behind three such solid defenders as Perry, Richards and King. On his first League outing, he said he was confident that they could deal with anything out of his reach.  Keller went on to say that he hoped that he would be able to get a run in the Tottenham first team to boost his chances of playing for the USA in the World Cup.  Keller was set to join up with his national squad for the Gold Cup competition, but the manager, Bruce Arena, looks like he will allow Kasey to stay and gain valuable first team time in the Tottenham side.
  Glenn Hoddle said he left Neil Sullivan out of the line-up for Aston Villa as goalkeepers, like those outfield players, drop their level of performance and he feels that it may benefit Sullivan to have had the rest.  Personally, I reckon Hoddle is resting him ahead of the Worthington Cup semi-finals, as a card now could rule him out of both games.
  Goran Bunjevcevic is not likely to be fit in time for the Blackburn Rovers match and is the only short-term injury problem Spurs have.  For the visitors, Andy Cole is expected to make his debut and there will probably be a return for midfielder David Dunn.  Lucas Neill will continue in the right back slot.
  TeamTalk speculate that Simon Davies could be recalled to the Spurs side in place of Mauricio Taricco.  This could be in reaction to the way the Blackburn Rovers players targeted the Argentinian in the match at Ewood Park.
  While some speculation surrounds Matthew Etherington's return to Spurs and has him down for a place on the bench against Blackburn Rovers, it is thought in some reports that he might be going back out on loan.  Having returned prematurely from Bradford City, Millwall are keen to add him to their squad as they push towards the top of Division One.  This is coupled with an unlikely reported £1.2 million bid for the tricky winger, which would no doubt be knocked back by Tottenham.
  In return, Spurs are allegedly interested in Millwall's 22 year old midfielder Tim Cahill.  The club have been linked with the Australian youngster for two years now and although The lions might put a £5 million price on his head, this might not deter Tottenham.
  Another loanee, Ciaran Toner is settling in nicely at Peterborough United, where they are happy that he is starting to show some good form after getting used to the team and their style.
  Tottenham are rated at 200/1 in the betting for the Premier League title by bookmakers William Hill.  Manchester United are 6/4 favourites.
  Tottenham's Bill Nicholson has once again been overlooked for a knighthood in the Queen's New Year's honours list.

Sunday 30.12.2001   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

   Glenn Hoddle has said on the official website that there has been no contact form Lazio about Sergei Rebrov.  This despite reports that Lazio officials are in London this weekend to discuss the deal, which could be on a loan basis to start off with, including De La Pena coming to Tottenham until the summer.  The News of the World reports that Fulham may be interested in buying Rebrov for £10 million to cure their goalscoring problem.
   Hod also said that the amount of injury time added was extortionate.  With only four substitutions made and not trainer having to come onto the pitch during the second half, he could not see how four minutes were added and thought that the teams should have been off the pitch when the handball occurred.  He added that it was unfortunate that it happened to Darren Anderton who he believes has been very consistent through the last few matches, even when the team have not been at their best.
   Bizarrely, Aston Villa manager John Gregory reckons that his side should have won the match.  In a blatant attempt to deflect any disaffection with his management, he told reporters that with the amount of possession his side had, they should have had more than a draw.  The fact that they were ineffective when it came to scoring goals seems to have passed the unfeasibly black haired one by !!
  Further to Neil Sullivan's non-appearance in goal in yesterday's game, apparently Tottenham were one of three clubs (Arsenal and Liverpool the other two), who enquired about Boca Juniors' 30 year old keeper Oscar Cordoba.  However, his club say that there have been no offers to make the Colombian keeper's Premiership dream come true.
  Glenn Hoddle is thought to be willing to pay £75,000 for Tranmere Rovers 18 year old star Shaun Thornton.  A number of clubs are interested in the young Republic of Ireland midfielder, but Spurs might have stolen a march on them by making a firm offer.
  Steve Bruce is looking at Tom Sherwood with a view to taking him to St. Andrews to aid Birmingham City's promotion push.  Spurs will be looking for about £2 million for the former Blackburn Rovers midfielder should the Blues be able to find some cash for his purchase.
  Les Ferdinand is saying that Dean Richards current form should see him called up by Sven Goran Eriksson into the England squad.  The Spurs striker believes his colleague is playing as well as any defender in the country and could be a surprise late entry to the squad for the World Cup finals.
  Spurs are also being linked to a move for SCBC's James Beattie in the Sunday Mirror.
  Former Spurs manager George Graham is being tipped to take over from John Gregory at Villa Park, should the boss there be moved out.

Saturday 29.12.2001   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Spurs drew 1-1 with Aston Villa at Villa Park this afternoon. Tottenham's goal came from Les Ferdinand.  For a match report click here.  For reaction, click here.
  New reports indicate that Ivan De La Pena is likely to be sold to a Spanish club to finance Lazio's bid for Sergei Rebrov.
  A large number of ex-Spurs were on the scoresheet today for their clubs.  They included Peter Gain (Lincoln City), Peter Crouch (Portsmouth), Paul McVeigh (Norwich City), Jamie Clapham (Ipswich Town) and Allan Nielsen (Watford).
   Former Spurs winger, David Ginola will not have his contract extended at Aston Villa when it expires in the summer.  It is thought that should an acceptable offer be received, he will be allowed to leave the Midlands club.

Friday 28.12.2001   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Spurs have been linked with a swap deal with Lazio, which would take Sergei Rebrov to Italy and bring midfielder Ivan De La Pena plus a bunch of cash to White Hart Lane.  Lazio see the Ukrainian as an ideal replacement for Darko Kovacevic (who left for Real Sociedad last week) and the deal is hoped to be completed while the Italian transfer window is open to the end of January.  Hoddle did take time out today to deny that Rebrov was going anywhere other than into the Spurs squad.
  Papers were also today pushing the rumour that Spurs were set to sign Jamie Redknapp, but it was mooted yesterday that he was ready to start talks with Liverpool about a new contract.  However, Tottenham vice Chairman David Buchler let the cat out of the bag when he said (in what sounds a direct lift from Glenn Hoddle) that Spurs "were looking at the Redknapp situation" !!  A £3 million pay-as-you-play deal was mentioned in the report.  Then again, Liverpool have denied that any club has made an approach for the player.
  Mauricio Taricco has said, in an interview with the London Evening Standard, that he does not expect to be called into the Argentina squad for the World Cup finals.  The Spurs defender said that he thought that it would mainly consist of those players who played in the qualifiers and that anyone playing for a club not in the spotlight in Europe would not be viewed as a candidate for the tournament.
  Teddy Sheringham thinks that Spurs have had a good first half of the season and are well placed for a push into the top six.  The Spurs skipper said that he was pleased with the way the first 19 games had gone, despite falling below the standards they have set in the last two, but believes that all the players are enjoying their football and that they have the ability to go on from their current position.
  Manager Glenn Hoddle believes that this run of two defeats can be turned around, if the team play as they can.  He told the official website it was disappointing that losing to Charlton Athletic, Ipswich Town and SCBC when they are all teams that Spurs could have beaten if they had played to their potential.  He now seeks consistency from the side as they enter a critical  period of the season.
  Matthew Etherington has returned from Bradford City, where he was on loan.  Because of the need to bring in a goalkeeper as cover for their first choice, Matty has been brought back, with only two loan players being allowed at any club at one time.  It is rumoured that long time admirers Luton Town and Millwall could be in to give him the opportunity of more first team football.
  Spurs are reported to have been to Sheffield Wednesday to watch their promising young centre half Leigh Bromby.  The 21 year old has also had scouts from SCBC, Liverpool and Middlesbrough to see how he is progressing, while rumours that a £3 million bid could tempt Wednesday to sell.
  Aston Villa's Lee Hendrie may miss tomorrow's game with Spurs after picking up an ankle injury in the Liverpool match on Boxing day.  David Ginola returns to the squad after suspension, while Alpay, Hadji and Delaney all miss out with lengthy injuries.
  For Tottenham, Oyvind Leonhardsen is available again after overcoming a bout of flu.
  Hajduk Split keeper Stipe Pletikosa said today that he would look to stay in his native country until the World Cup as he is unsure about a move now after a summer deal with Marseilles fell through.  Pletikosa has been watched by Spurs on a number of occasions and it was thought that a move would be made for him earlier this season.
  Former supposed Spurs transfer target, Michael Duberry has signed anew five year deal at Leeds United.  Phew !!

Thursday 27.12.2001   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

   Spurs have been named as one of the teams who have been informed that Andy Cole could be ready to leave Manchester United if a bid of £10 million was made.  Blackburn Rovers appear to be the front-runners for the England striker, but Aston Villa and Newcastle United are two other clubs cited as interested parties.
  Glenn Hoddle has said that with teams taking points off each other in the Premiership, it is down to consistency for a side to make a surge to the top.  Spurs still had a lot of hard work to do, especially following two straight defeats and it was Glenn's hope that the side would come together and respond in the right and positive manner.  He went on to say on the club's official site that Tottenham do not have the depth of squad of the top five teams and therefore, the players we do have will have to be resilient during this period.
   Hoddle also said that Dean Richards performed very well in the face of puerile abuse form the home fans on Wednesday.  He said that he put in a good performance and even though he was exposed at the end as Spurs pressed for an equaliser, he showed his experience and class.
    Hassan Kachloul has praised Dean Richards and Glenn Hoddle in the run-up to the game with Aston Villa on Saturday.  He said that Deano plays a similar role to the one Hoddle had him playing at SCBC, while the manager has improved Tottenham in a familiar way by concentrating on communication and in bringing the best out of the individuals in the team.
  Sergei Rebrov said in the London Evening Standard that he is unhappy at only getting  a game when Les Ferdinand is not fit.

Wednesday 26.12.2001   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Spurs lost to SCBC 0-1 today at the New Dell.  Click here for match report.  For reaction, click here.

Tuesday 25.12.2001   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

   MERRY CHRISTMAS OR A VERY HAPPY FESTIVAL TIME FROM ALL AT MEHSTG.

Monday 24.12.2001   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

   Tottenham are to officially appeal against the sending off of Teddy Sheringham in Saturday's match against Ipswich Town.
  Les Ferdinand is 100% fit to play against SCBC at the New Dell on Wednesday for Spurs.
   Dean Richards is looking forward to the warm reception he will receive when he goes back to his old big club at the New Dell on Boxing Day.  He said he enjoyed his time there, but the League table shows that he made the right move.
  Glenn Hoddle is likely to replace Simon Davies with the experience of Gus Poyet for the trip to SCBC.  Hoddle feels that Davies has done well at home, but realises that he might need the breadth of knowledge on the pitch.  e also knows that with a lot of games coming up in a short time, he needs to use the full depth of his squad to it's best effect.
   Excelsior Mouscron striker Marcin Zewlakow is being watched by Spurs apparently.  The 25 year old is also being tracked by Blackburn Rovers, Southampton, and Celtic, being likely to play with his twin brother (a defender at the club) for Poland in the World Cup finals.

Sunday 23.12.2001   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Tampa Mutiny striker, Devin Barclay has returned to America after a month's training with Spurs and said he enjoyed the experience.  He hopes to return, as Spurs gave him some good reports and the 18 year old feels that he has benefited from his spell at Spurs Lodge.
  The Spurs site reported on a match between the Academy side and the club's management and training staff, which the youngsters won with a David Galbraith Golden Goal after ten minutes of extra time as the old boys (all 14 of them by then) ran out of energy.

Saturday 22.12.2001   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Tottenham lost 1-2 to Ipswich Town at White Hart Lane today.  Teddy Sheringham was dismissed for violent conduct in the 54th minute.  Click here for a match report.  Click here for reaction.
  Spurs are said to be considering a £3 million bid for Jamie Redknapp of Liverpool.
  Glenn Hoddle said that Teddy Sheringham did not throw a punch at John McGreal, although it might have looked that way.  Having reviewed the incident on video, Hoddle said he went to push the Ipswich defender away as he had been holding his shirt for 30 seconds, but the referee interpreted it as a punch and showed Teddy the red card.  The Spurs boss has asked the official to look at the incident again and he has agreed.
  Sergei Rebrov has told the Guardian newspaper that he will stay at Spurs to fight for his place, but if he is still not getting regular first team football by the end of the season, he will have to consider his position.
  Belgian side Mouscron have denied that a link-up deal has been agreed with Tottenham.  A director of the club said that Spurs have been over to see them three times, but nothing has been finalised.  He said that representatives of the two clubs have scheduled a meeting in the new year to discuss matters, but other clubs in Africa and South America are also looking for a mutually beneficial arrangement with them.

Friday 21.12.2001   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Spurs are being linked with a move for Kevin Phillips following rumours that Lazio are making a bid for Sergei Rebrov.  Also allegedly moving to Spurs as part of the £12 million that the Ukrainian brings in is Liverpool's Jamie Redknapp.
  Tottenham will face Ipswich Town without Christian Ziege tomorrow as he is still suffering with a foot injury.  Goran Bunjevcevic still has a thigh strain and will not feature.
   Ipswich meanwhile, recall Martin Reuser to the squad and Alun Armstrong faces a late fitness test.  Marcus Bent is expected to start in attack for the Blues.
   Glenn Hoddle was very impressed by Ipswich Town's performance against Aston Villa on Monday despite their 2-1 defeat.  He said that they are playing good football and that they will turn the corner and pull away from the foot of the table if they keep doing so, as long as they didn't start on Saturday.
  Hoddle also said that by the end of January, he will know how well his side are doing.  With sixteen games in December and January, including FA and Worthington Cup ties, he will be able to assess how they are shaping up during the busy part of the season.
   Reserve midfielder Ciaran Toner has moved to Peterborough United on a month's loan.
  Steffen Freund has put a Spurs goal  at the top of his Christmas list ! He said that although if the team play well and win he is happy, he believes that if he keeps plugging away the goals will come !
  Although Tottenham are the most commonly linked club with a move for Bobby Zamora of Brighton and Hove Albion, the player said he would love to play for the club he supported as a child ... West Ham United.
  Spurs are to raise £15 million finance from the City to build a new Academy for the youth sides at the club.  A site has been identified in Abridge (close to the current location of the Spurs Lodge training ground in Chigwell) and an announcement is expected in March.  The money will be raised in loans set against future income in match receipts, which is not thought to be a problem with the support the club enjoys and the number of season tickets held.
  From the start of next season, English clubs will have an extra Champions League place available to vie for.  Because of the good progress made by the clubs in the competition over the last few years, there will be four places up for grabs.

Thursday 20.12.2001   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

   Glenn Hoddle has put all Spurs fans minds at rest by reveling that Tottenham are not one of the two clubs interested in the services of Lee Bowyer.  The Spurs boss said "There is no interest there at all from us. I don't think I need to say more."  Any bets one of the clubs involved is Arsenal ??  You just feel that he would fit in well there.
  Tottenham have announced a link-up with Belgian club Mouscron.  This will involve an exchange of players and coaches, with Tottenham having first call on any players that Mouscron produce.  Spurs might also be able to use the club as a staging post for players who need to establish European residence, as the Belgian work permit system is much more lax than our own.
  Simon Davies has agreed to sign an extension to his contract at Tottenham that will take him through until 2006.  It is believed the deal is worth around £10,000 a week to the Welsh international and that he will sign the contract in the New Year. 
  Steffen Iversen has said he was glad to be back and that his goal against Bolton in the Worthington Cup was a real bonus.  The Norwegian feels that his presence in the side will provide some competition for places in the forward line.
  Les Ferdinand faces another late fitness test to see if he will stat in the match against Ipswich Town on Saturday.
  A Spurs XI drew 1-1 with Stevenage Borough at Broadhall Way tonight with Tim Sherwood scoring for Tottenham.

Wednesday 19.12.2001   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  I really hope this is not true, but Spurs are being linked with Lee Bowyer in the Daily Star (ah ... thank goodness for that ... it won't be true then).  Apparently, when he leaves Leeds for £15 million, Tottenham are supposedly in line to buy him. 
  Darren Anderton told the Official website that his Achilles is getting stronger and he has managed to get through the heavy programme we have had recently by not taking any chances with it.  Except the one that came along just before half time against Fulham that is (his first home goal in nearly a year).
  The Worthington Cup semi-final matches against Chelsea will take place at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday 9th January and at White Hart Lane on Wednesday 23rd January.  Both games will kick-off at 8.05 p.m.
  Simon Davies has admitted he is not a defender, but hopes to bring something to the team when he plays (and he's not wrong).  Glenn Hoddle said he knows where Simon's best position is, but will not play him there at the moment, as it is filled by another player.  Hod added that Simon is "switched on" and has scored another goal from a different position, so he was well pleased.
  Gary Mabbutt praised Hoddle for the impact he has made at Tottenham and believes that in five or ten years time he will be an even better manager, who could match the achievements of Bill Nicholson.  Former Spurs captain Mabbutt said that Hoddle's singings had produced the right blend in the side and they were defensively sound, while they were building up moves, waiting for the right moment to take a chance rather than the more direct George Graham approach.
  Jason Koumas, the Tranmere Rovers midfielder, has been linked with a move to Tottenham, but his agent denies any knowledge of the enquiry.
  A Spurs XI face Stevenage at Broadhall Way tomorrow in a friendly, kicking off at 7 p.m.

Tuesday 18.12.2001   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

   Gary Doherty was working with a ball again for the first time since braking his leg against Torquay United in the Worthington Cup back in September.  He has also been doing some gentle twisting and turning to ease himself back into training, the official website revealed.
  John Gorman has told the Spurs website that he is pleased that some of the training ground work is paying off on the field with the back to back clean sheets.  He said that the defending starts from the front and the work that Teddy and Les do is very important.
   Oyvind Leonhardsen has denied rumours that he might be joining Glasgow Rangers.
   and finally ... Tony Adams has said that alcohol advertising should be banned form football in an attempt to reduce it's influence in the game.  The fact that Tottenham are sponsored by a beer company probably has nothing to do with it, but surely the evil of computer/video game systems is too large to ignore.  MEHSTG says ban all games systems advertising in football.

Monday 17.12.2001   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Les Ferdinand has said that at the end of the final year of his deal (in 2003), he will look at his situation and decide if he will carry on in football.  He told the London Evening Standard that he wanted to decide when he finished and not wait for someone else to tell him.  If he thinks he can continue, he will seek a year's contract and take it one year at a time.  
  Meanwhile, he has praised the Tottenham defence despite all the glory being heaped on the forwards.  He told the official website that the defence has been very resilient and that was not just the three or five at the back, but also the midfielders who defend too.  Les said that although the Press has devalued the 6-0 win over Bolton by saying it was a weakened side, the fact that Spurs had stuck four past one of the tightest defences in the Premiership in Fulham proved that the team were in full flight.
   The rumour that Spurs will make a move for Red Star Belgrade's midfield star Milenko Asimovic has grown legs and a price of £5 million has been quoted.  The player could leave for free on a Bosman in the summer, but his club might want to cash in with some Italian clubs and Real Zaragoza already being linked.  However, the player wants to try his luck in England and might want to link up with former team-mate Goran Bunjevcevic.
  Tottenham are also among a group of clubs who are watching Crawley Town's striker Rob Collins, who is likened to Michael Owen.  West Ham United, Charlton Athletic, Millwall and Portsmouth have all had scouts at the non-league clubs games lately too.
  Matt Jansen, the Blackburn Rovers forward, is likely to miss the New Years Day match with Spurs after sustaining ankle damage on Saturday's game against Newcastle United.
  Referee Neale Barry might have to go before a panel to explain his decision to book Louis Saha in Saturday's visit of Fulham to White Hart Lane, when he did not commit the foul he was cautioned for.  Steed Malbranque was the guilty party and the Cottagers intend to use video evidence to prove their point, leaving the official with some explaining to do.
   and finally ... Arsenal striker Thierry Henry was robbed of £25,000 of CD's, Leather coats and watches from his house while playing against Juventus in the Champions League.  Who said the competition was worthless these days ??

Sunday 16.12.2001   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Glenn Hoddle revealed on the Spurs website that Les Ferdinand was only 75% fit when he played yesterday against Fulham.  The Spurs striker will have fluid drained from his ankle tomorrow and will continue to have treatment on it. 
  Hoddle added that there was some clinical finishing in the ten goals scored this week by the team and also some cutting football against a side who had got a 0-0 at Anfield against Liverpool in midweek.
  Fulham coach Jean Tigana said he did not know how he was going to sleep after watching his side taken apart by Tottenham.  The Frenchman said that Spurs were lethal in their finishing and that they were the best side that his team had played this season.  He did add that he felt his side were tired and he may need to add some fresh blood soon.
  Spurs have been included in a clutch of clubs who are seeking to tempt 31 year old Boca Juniors keeper Oscar Cordoba to England.  His club want £3.5 million for him and say that Tottenham, Arsenal and Manchester United can all meet the club's asking price.
  Another rumoured to be watched by Spurs is Dundee United's 18 year old full back Jamie McCunnlie, who is also being scouted by Manchester United, Newcastle United, West Ham United, Celtic and Glasgow Rangers.

Saturday 15.12.2001   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Spurs beat Fulham 4-0 this afternoon at White Hart Lane.  The goalscorers were Les Ferdinand, Darren Anderton, Simon Davies and Sergei Rebrov.  For a match report, click here.
  Tottenham's first goal was scored by Les Ferdinand and as the first of the day in the Premiership, it was the 10,000th goal scored since the League's inception in 1992.  Ferdinand won £10,000 from the league to donate to charities of his choice and the money will aid breast cancer and teenage cancer charities.
  Teddy Sheringham made his 700th club appearance in today's game.
  Tottenham have been drawn to play Chelsea in the Worthington Cup semi-finals.  The first leg will be at Stamford Bridge to be played during the week starting January 9th and the return leg at White Hart Lane will be staged during the week starting Monday 21st January. 
  Spurs have today been linked with a move for Red Star Belgrade's midfield star Milenko Asimovic, a Slovenian international, who says he is close to joining the club.
  Argentinian midfielder Andres D'Alessandro is a target for Manchester United and his signing is to be made a priority for the club.  Spurs had been linked with the talented River Plate star for some time.

Friday 14.12.2001   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

   The Tottenham Hotspur plc AGM took place at White's Club this morning.  One of the main things that came out of the meeting was that the club would not increase their capacity of the ground until the local and central government had given a commitment to improve the local infrastructure to allow easier access to and from the ground.  The club favour staying at White Hart Lane, but would not commit to the development of the ground into a 55,000+ stadium until there was some co-operation from the authorities.  Vice Chairman David Buchler said that the club also intended to secure it's future on the field by pumping £20 million into the club's Academy.  For a full report click here.
  Director of Football David Pleat revealed that the club currently have some young players from Slavia Prague (one of the ENIC owned clubs) training with the club for a while.  This is intended as the start of a link-up with the Czech side and hopefully, if they gain EEC status in a couple of years we could see some trade between the two clubs.
  Dean Richards has said that he gets frustrated with Tottenham's Worthington Cup run ... as he can't be part of it !!  Having signed after playing for Southampton, he is cup-tied and he said on the official club site that having come to Spurs to win things, he will be miffed if it is the Worthington Cup without him.
  Japanese centre half, Ryuzo Morioka of Shimizu S-Pulse, is set to come and train with Spurs for a week in January.  The 26 year old is paying his own way to England in the hope of securing a move to the Premiership after the 2002 World Cup. An established international, he has worked under Steve Perryman and Ossie Ardiles and it is thought that this convinced him to come to Tottenham.
  Glenn Hoddle has revealed that his managerial apprenticeship at Swindon Town has stood him in good stead for improving individuals at each club he has been at.  Hoddle said he has been working on player weaknesses and how to improve them - saying even Pele would have said that he could still learn things even at his peak.  With little money at the Wiltshire side, Glenn had to bring the best out of his players and he feels that some managers have never had to do that because they have an open cheque book.
  Despite facing him on the football pitch for club and country, Glenn Hoddle said that when Spurs played a Worthington Cup tie at Craven Cottage recently, it was the first chance he had to have a talk to the Cottager's boss Jean Tigana.  He feels that the West London side are technically among the best in the Premiership and that they have made some shrewd purchases.
  Former Spurs youth Striker, Glynn Hurst, has left Stockport County for Chesterfield on a free transfer.
  Rupert Lowe, chairman of SCBC, said today that fans should be allowed to stand in terraced areas for safety's sake.  He might be granted his wish when his side dip down into the First Division, where such practices are allowed.

Thursday 13.12.2001   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Tottenham Hotspur plc's AGM will be held at White's club in Paxton Road tomorrow morning at 11 a.m.
  Glenn Hoddle told the official club website that Stephen Carr and Gary Doherty are both running again in training and in the gym and he hopes they will be back in action at the end of January.
  Although he played well in his comeback match in the first team against Bolton Wanderers, Anthony Gardner is willing to wait for his chance to get another crack in the senior side.  He said that it was a nice game to return in, as the side was playing nice football and the side kept a clean sheet, but he realises that he will need to be patient to feature again after his first game since being injured at the end of last season.
  Steffen Iversen said today that the Spurs team realise that the defeat at Charlton Athletic was a setback, but they must respond by getting on another good run of results to re-establish their consistency.
  Early team news for Saturday is that Dean Richards will return in place of Anthony Gardner, while Christian Ziege is suspended for this one match.  Les Ferdinand is receiving treatment on his injured ankle and will probably have a late fitness test before Hoddle decides whether he will play or not.
  The away match at Chelsea has been moved to a 1 p.m. kick off on Sunday 24th February from the day before.
  Spurs target, the 19 year old Swedish youngster Kim Karlsson, has left his First Division side Hacken to join Djurgarden of the Swedish Premier League for £350,000.

Wednesday 12.12.2001   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Hat trick hero Les Ferdinand is struggling to be fit for Saturday's game at home to Fulham after getting another kick on his injured ankle.  He was limping from early on in the game and was withdrawn at half-time as a precaution.  Ferdie will get treatment in a bid to be fit for the next London derby.
  Chris Perry fees as though Spurs can beat anyone on their day.  He told reporters that he thinks Spurs are playing very well and that any team they come up against, they believe they can beat them.  Perry went on to say he is playing the best football of his Spurs career as he has been receiving good coaching on his use of the ball and also praised the work of John Syer the club team-builder. He said it was the first time he had worked with a psychologist and felt the benefit from the positive way the meetings with Syer were structured.  Chris said that this is the best Spurs team he has played in and with Carr and Doherty to return it can only get better.
  Spurs reserves lost 0-2 at Ipswich Town tonight.

Tuesday 11.12.2001   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

   Spurs beat Bolton Wanderers 6-0 at White Hart Lane tonight.  The goals were scored by Davies, Ferdinand (hat-trick), Barness og and Steffen Iversen.  Click here for match report.  Click here for reaction.
   Glenn Hoddle revealed that Spurs have been watching Brighton and Hove Albion's striker Bobby Zamora, but they have not put a bid in for him as yet.  The 20 year old goalscoring forward is rated at £5 million.
   Gudni Bergsson told the official website that he has a soft spot for Tottenham, but when he turns out for Bolton Wanderers, he gives his all for them.
   Hoddle spelled out to his team that they are just three steps away from Europe, he said on the club site.  He stressed that by winning the three Worthington Cup games to get to the final, they would be as important as winning the last three games of the season to get a place in European competition.
   Although Oyvind Leonhardsen is frustrated by the lack of a regular first team place, he has said he will stay and fight to get back into the side.
   Spurs have not been chosen as one of the televised games for the FA Cup Third Round and therefore the match will take place on Saturday January 5th.

Monday 10.12.2001   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Christian Ziege is a doubt for tomorrow's Worthington Cup tie against Bolton Wanderers.  He is still being troubled by the foot injury he picked up in the league match against the same side.  Les Ferdinand is still struggling with an ankle injury picked up last week.
  Gus Poyet regards the Bolton match as the most important this season.  He told the official website that the excitement of being three games away from a European place is very exciting and that this game is more important than any league game, because of it's one-off nature.
  Hoddle spoke to the club site and told them that the game against Charlton Athletic was a blow and that the side has to get back to being consistent as they had after losing to Manchester United.  The Spurs boss said it will be a hard game against Bolton in the Worthington Cup, but he was glad that they could get out on the pitch again so soon after the defeat in the London derby.  Glenn added that these set-backs will occur, but it is all about how you respond to them.
  Bolton may well rotate their players in the team for tomorrow's game, meaning that Spurs could face an almost entirely different side.  Manager Sam Allardyce said that the side could relax now that League points were not at stake and that if they play as well as they did last week, they have a good chance of winning.
   Tottenham are supposed to be in the running for Glasgow Rangers' midfielder Barry Ferguson, who could move on for £15 million.  Liverpool are favourites, but Arsenal, Leeds United and Chelsea are also looking at the Scottish international who might move at the end of the season.
   Spurs are rumoured to be watching Nottingham Forest's 18 year old midfielder Jermaine Jenas.  All of the Forest players are up for sale and Newcastle United are believed to have had talks with the First Division club about the player.  Leeds United are reported to have made an unsuccessful £4 million bid and other clubs are watching to see how the situation develops.
  A Spurs XI will play Stevenage Borough on Thursday December 20th at Broadhall Lane, with the kick off at 7 p.m.

Sunday 9.12.2001   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Tottenham have been drawn to play away at Coventry City in the 3rd Round of the FA Cup. The match will be played on January 5th, 6th or 7th.
  Tottenham are thought to be ready to move for Brighton and Hove Albion's star striker Bobby Zamora in the summer, offering £5 million to take him to White Hart Lane.  Everton are also rumoured to be interested, but may not be able to fund the deal.
  Spurs are laughably being linked with Paris St. Germain's ex-Gooner Nicholas Anelka.  The troublesome nuisance is available on loan as nobody wants him to play for them, having got through three moves in three years.  The rumour is that Spurs are interested as long as PSG pay a large percentage of his £75,000 a week salary.  He has been offered to most of the top clubs in the Premiership, but it would be most surprising if anyone got closer than a bargepole's length to him.
  Gareth Barry has again been linked with Tottenham in today's papers.  The Aston Villa left back is out of favour at Villa Park and it is thought that Hoddle might want him to come and play as part of a back three at Tottenham.  However, with a good depth of squad in this area, it would be a major shock if Glenn did splash out on the England prospect.
  Spurs are reported to be chasing the signing of 19 year old Dickson Etuhu of Manchester City.  The talented youngster has stalled talks on a new contract and looks set to leave.

Saturday 8.12.2001   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

   Tottenham lost 1-3 at Charlton Athletic this afternoon at the Valley.  Gus Poyet grabbed a consolation for Spurs.  For a match report, click here. For reaction, click here.
  Glenn Hoddle was concerned about the defending in today's game. He said after the 1-3 defeat that you cannot expect to give goals like those we gifted Charlton Athletic with and expect to get anything out of matches away from home.
  Spurs Under-17's beat Reading Under-17's 3-0 this morning at Spurs Lodge.  Two goals from Michael Malcolm and another from David Tyrie secured victory for the Tottenham youngsters.  For a match report, click here.

Friday 7.12.2001   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Les Ferdinand and Christian Ziege will both miss tomorrow's match at Charlton Athletic with injuries, while Steffen Freund is suspended for one game and will not be available.
  Sergei Rebrov is revelling in the passing football that Tottenham are playing and now he is back in the first team picture.  The Ukrainian striker admitted that this was the sort of football he was used to at Dynamo Kiev and that he thinks that a European place is a possibility if the good form continues.
  Glenn Hoddle dispelled thoughts that Tottenham are back.  He said that at the moment it was a case of being maybe on the right course perhaps situation.  With only 15 games gone, he said that he was pleased that the style of football that Tottenham fans are accustomed to had returned, but nothing had been won yet and there was still a long way to go.
  TeamTalk report that David Pleat has been watching the Nottingham Forest midfielder Jermaine Jenas, who is being courted by Southampton, Arsenal and Leeds United.  The £4 million 18 year old has played at England Under-19 level and could break into the Under-21 set-up run by his former manager David Platt.
  After losing to four of the five top teams, Ledley King believes that the last minute volley by Gus Poyet that gained a point against Arsenal could be an important moment in Tottenham's season.  He considers that the goal has given Spurs more confidence and that they can go on to achieve a lot more with their flowing football.

Thursday 6.12.2001   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  The FA have said they will not take any further action over incidents involving things being thrown on the pitch at recent Tottenham matches.  They stated that the club have taken appropriate measures to eradicate the events in the future and that the FA will continue to monitor activities.
  Glenn Hoddle watched Charlton beat Chelsea last night and is impressed by the Addicks.  He said that they were well organised and will be confident playing at home on Saturday, so Spurs should expect a difficult match.
  Gary Doherty is keen to get fit and playing again for Spurs and hopes that he might be able to fight his way into the Republic of Ireland squad for the World Cup finals, which he says would be a dream.
  Christian Ziege told the Spurs official website that Spurs fans should get used to teams coming to defend at White Hart Lane and that this is a compliment as it indicates that they are coming for a draw rather than a win.  He said that the team must have patience to break down the visiting sides and that they bank on the fans also having the understanding to wait for a breakthrough.
  Les Ferdinand said that Spurs are in a good position to push on towards the top of the table, but he stressed that the side should not under estimate Charlton Athletic, who face Spurs at the Valley on Saturday.
  Reserve midfielder Johnnie Jackson has been suffering tendonitis in both knees for a couple of months and will not be back in training until after Christmas.  Being his first major injury, he is understandably frustrated, but is keen not to come back too soon as that may lead to an operation.
  Tottenham's game against Derby County at Pride Park on Saturday February 2nd has had the kick off moved to Noon for a Pay-Per-View showing on Sky TV, while the same company have moved the return match against Charlton Athletic at White Hart Lane to Monday 18th March, with the kick off at 8 p.m.
  The Spurs Youth side have been drawn against Bolton Wanderers in the next round of the FA Youth Cup.  The Fourth round tie will be staged at the Reebok Stadium on a date before January 26th 2002.
  It is reported that Atletico Madrid have offered Stefan Effenberg £3 million in wages for a two year deal.  Therefore, the Daily Express say that Spurs will need to make him a similar wages deal to tempt him to White Hart Lane.
 David Ginola hopes that former Spurs team mate Jose Dominguez gets called up to the Portugal squad for the World Cup finals, as he believes that country have the best chance of winning the tournament.

Wednesday 5.12.2001   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Glenn Hoddle said on the club's official website that being in the top five in the Premier League is a confidence booster and has helped the buzz around the club at the moment.  

  The manager also added that there will be opportunities for Sergei Rebrov, and other players, to feature in the side over the Christmas period, when more players will be used in the matches to produce their particular skills and hurt the appropriate opposition on the day.
  Gus Poyet told the same site that his run of goals is down to luck.  He said that being in the right place for his header against Bolton Wanderers was fortunate as the ball was going away from him when it hit the post and it was only the intervention of Whitlow that took it onto the bar and as the Uruguayan asked the bar to "pass to him" it dropped onto his head.  Poyet added that although Bolton pulled the score back to 2-2, he always felt that Spurs would win.
  Poyet said on the Sky website that he thinks his chance to play for Uruguay in the World Cup might have gone as he has not been picked by the new coach since he took over and believes that he will stick with the nucleus of the squad who qualified for the finals.
  Last night Spurs played a reserve team friendly behind closed doors against Southend United and won 2-0 with Steffen Iversen scoring both goals. Kasey Keller also played 
  AC Milan have said they will not rush in to replace injury victim Filipo Inzaghi and that rules out a bid for Sergei Rebrov.
  Today, Stefan Effenberg has confirmed he has been to Madrid to talk with Atletico about a transfer when his contract at Bayern Munich is at an end in the summer.

Tuesday 4.12.2001   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Les Ferdinand was injured in the dying seconds of last night's match and he will have scans to see if his ankle is badly damaged.  The official site have revealed that Les might be sidelined for a week, after going over on his ankle as he landed.  Spurs boss Glenn Hoddle told them he hoped it would not be a long timeout for the in-form Tottenham striker.

  Glenn Hoddle has said he wanted to play Sergei Rebrov as he had played well against Fulham and thought that for the long term good of the club the Ukrainian should start the match.

  Hod said that the side had belief in themselves and it all began following the Manchester United game.  That is why they play as if they can win even from a position where they might be behind in the match.

  Talking about his half-time substitutes, Glenn explained that he felt that the side needed some blind side runs and to stretch Bolton wide, so he pushed more players forward in an attempt to open the visitors up.  He didn't think it would work so quickly !!

  The oldies in the Spurs side came in for some praise when Hoddle said that Poyet, Ferdinand and Sheringham all have a burning desire to do well, which is why he brought them to Tottenham.  He singled out Teddy and said that he is working harder than he has ever done in all his years in the game.

  AC Milan are looking for a forward to replace Pippo Inzaghi while he is in hospital and are interested in Sergei Rebrov, possibly with former Alaves striker Javi Moreno thrown in as part of the deal.

  A report has cited Spurs fans as throwing a bottle onto the pitch again last night in what is becoming a boring and worrying trend.  The FA are said to be wanting to look into this after similar events at the Arsenal and Fulham games in the last two weeks.  The club may be about to ban the sale of bottled beer at the ground in an attempt to stop the practice being carried out by errant fans.

  Ossie Ardiles, the former Spurs midfielder and manager, has said that his old side could launch a Title challenge next season.  He said he always looks out for the club's results as he is Tottenham through and through and believes that the excellent progress Glenn has made in charge could see them go through to next season with a lot of hope.  Ossie added this is the most exciting team that Tottenham have had for some time.

  Les Ferdinand has claimed that his striking partner Teddy Sheringham could retain both of his Footballer of the Year trophies if he keeps his current form up.  He said he is playing as well as anyone in the country and Les thinks Teddy is a certainty for the England World Cup squad.

  Spurs' young keeper Nicky Eyre has been selected in the England Under-17 squad to travel for two friendlies in Portugal on 11th and 13th of December.

  Amidst many denials, Stefan Effenberg is said to be interesting second division Atletico Madrid and rumours have it that his wife and manager has been in the city to start discussions.

  An even stranger rumour concerns the £4 million transfer of Leeds United's Stephen McPhail to Newcastle United or Tottenham.  The 22 year old midfielder is happy to stay at Elland Road and the only other link with the player came in a piece in the News of the World where fans send in rumours they have heard (or have made up themselves).

  Former Spurs winger David Ginola could be in big trouble with the FA after he blasted the fourth official on the way off the pitch after receiving his red card against Leicester City.  He will face a misconduct charge which could extend his three match ban to six games and he will then miss all of Villa's Christmas programme including a match against Tottenham.

  The Spurs Youth team beat Walsall 5-1 at the Bescot stadium tonight with goals from Lee Barnard 2, John Sutton 2 and Jamie Slabber.

Monday 3.12.2001   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Spurs beat Bolton Wanderers 3-2 tonight at White Hart Lane with the goals scored by Gus Poyet, Les Ferdinand and Teddy Sheringham.  For match report, click here.  For report, click here.

  Teddy Sheringham has said that he will go into management when his playing days are finished, but he doesn't foresee that being just yet.

  Hoddle praised Sergei Rebrov's attitude to being out of the side, saying he was first class in training and was happy to sharpen his match play in the reserves.  The Spurs manager told the Press that he was judged on results and would not let sentiment get in the way of that. 

  Chris Perry told the club website that he was playing his best football since leaving Wimbledon.  He went on to add that he was frustrated when he was out of the side, but the injuries to others have given him a chance to re-establish himself in the Spurs defence.

  Europe via the Worthington Cup is an important route for Spurs to travel, John Gorman told the club website.  He said that how the club gets there is irrelevant, but they need to get into one of the European competitions.  He also paid tribute to Ledley King for his performance against Fulham, saying he had not trained and had been laid low with a stomach bug, but he should maturity in his play at Craven Cottage.

  Chris Armstrong's agent has denied the link that Watford are keen to take his player to Vicarage Road.  However, he did add that Armo would be available on a free in the summer, so hoped to be fit soon to prove he was worth someone employing him in the close season should Spurs not offer a new contract.

  Stephen Clemence could be back in the Spurs squad on Saturday for the visit to Charlton Athletic.  Clem could be back in consideration after 10 weeks out with ligament damage in his ankle.

  One of the players who left Spurs, for the Valley - Luke Young, says he does not regret his decision and that he made the move because he didn't think he would be in the Spurs first team and did not want to waste his time stuck on the bench.

  Macclesfield's 19 year old midfielder Ricky Lambert was supposedly watched by scouts from Liverpool and Tottenham in Saturday's win at Torquay United in which he scored both his side's goals.

Sunday  2.12.2001   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Gus Poyet is hoping that he will feature in tomorrow's game against Bolton Wanderers after recovering from his concussion in the West Ham match a week ago.  The Uruguayan said he can remember little after heading towards goal at Upton Park and although he has been training, he told the official website that he wants to try out heading the ball some more before being certain he can play.  He has also been nursing a black eye from the incident he revealed.

  The difference between first team and reserve football really came home to Goran Bunjevcevic on Thursday according to an interview on the club website.  He told them that the atmosphere and quality of the players mean a lot of sharpness in needed and that although he did make a couple of mistakes during the Worthington Cup tie, he was pleased to be back in the first XI.

  Arsenal are apparently watching Neil Sullivan, because David Seaman might have come to the end of his useful goalkeeping life at the club.  Although Sullivan has two years left on his contract, the Gooners believe that he might make the trip down Seven Sisters Road to join them for some reason, according to the News of the World.

  Chris Armstrong is attracting interest from Watford in the Sunday newspapers.  The Hornets want him to lead their attack as they try to regain their Premiership status and could make a move for him, when he returns from injury as he finds himself behind a long queue of forwards to get a first team place.

  Rumours are reported in the papers that Spurs are showing an interest in Leicester City's want-away midfielder Muzzy Izzett.

   South London side Charlton Athletic are looking at Steffen Freund with envious eyes according to reports today.

  Brian Laudrup has been touting former Spurs centre half Richard Gough for the Glasgow Rangers manager's job saying he is a legend and the right sort of person to take on the task.

Saturday  1.12.2001   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Glenn Hoddle told the official club site that he was looking forward to having his full complement of strikers available for selection and that he would not opt for the "rotation" system employed at other clubs.  He said that he would select the best players to play against certain opponents and that leaving players out for a rest could upset any momentum they build up.  With both Sergei Rebrov and Les Ferdinand scoring in the last games they played in, he would have a tough task in who to pick for the Bolton game on Monday.

  Spurs keeper, Neil Sullivan has boosted Sergei Rebrov's confidence with a glowing reference after the Fulham cup tie.  He said that despite only getting on as a substitute a few times, on Thursday, he ran the Fulham defence down and worked really hard, taking his goal clinically when it came.

  The keeper also took time out to label Bolton Wanderers as the new "Crazy Gang" of the Premiership.  He said that teams promoted to the top League often have to get by with their team spirit and by sticking together when the going gets tough.  The Scottish goalie added that they were not phased by coming to White Hart Lane, having beaten a couple of the top sides on their travels already.

  Steffen Freund joined in the praise for the Northern side when he told reporters that people should remember the Trotters' performance in beating Manchester United at Old Trafford earlier in the campaign to ensure that a win over them not viewed as a formality.

  Team news includes a return for Les Ferdinand and Mauricio Taricco, while Gus Poyet will have a late test to see if he can play after suffering concussion in the West Ham United match.  Dean Richards is available again after being cup-tied for the Worthington Cup tie against Fulham.

  Former Spurs winger David Ginola was sent off for kicking Dennis Wise after being fouled in the Aston Villa vs. Leicester City match today.