White Hot Lines

JANUARY 2003

Friday  31.1.2003   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Daniel Levy has announced on the Spurs website that there will be no more signings before the transfer window closes.  he said that the club would not rush into a deal with a player who was not right for the club in the short or long term and called for support from the fans.  He said that there was a deep first team squad and that there was a strong reserve team behind that, which could still push for a place in Europe.  
Can anyone read between these lines ??
  TOTTENHAM TEAM NEWS : - Spurs face a late decision on Robbie Keane after his injury in midweek.  There is no long term damage and although the ankle is still sore, the Irishman could be in with a chance of playing.  Steffen Iversen has been passed fit after getting over his dead leg.
  CHELSEA TEAM NEWS : - Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink has recovered form injury to face Spurs, but Celestine Babayaro will miss the match with a thigh strain.
  Tottenham were linked to a move for Nottingham Forest's David Johnson, but the £5 million price tag was thought by the London Evening Standard to have frightened Spurs off.
  Two fixtures for the Spurs reserves have been re-arranged.  The previously postponed match at home to Coventry City has been fixed for Wednesday 19th February and the match that was going to be played on Monday February 24th has now been schedules for the next day Tuesday 25th February.  Both games  will take place at Stevenage Borough FC with kick off at 7.00 p.m.
  Former Spurs reserve keeper Dave Beasant has moved from Wigan Athletic to Brighton and Hove Albion on a free transfer.


Thursday  30.1.2003   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Spurs have had their interest in German international forward Miroslav Klose revealed.  The Kaiserslautern striker has been the focus of rumour concerning Manchester United, but former Spurs forward Ronnie Rosenthal, who acts as the player's agent, said that Tottenham might be his intended destination.  An initial loan deal with a £2 million option for a permanent deal at the end of that time is possible.  However, he is part owned by the German national Lotto, who paid £3.2 million towards having his registration to raise some money for his cash-strapped club !!  maybe, Spurs would have done better by buying some tickets for the draw !!
  It is reported in the London Evening Standard that Spurs have made an improved £3 million plus Gary Doherty offer for Bolton Wanderers Michael Ricketts.
  Tottenham are also reportedly watching Uruguayan Dario Silva, the Malaga striker.  Spurs ran the rule over his performance against Mallorca on Sunday according to the Standard and another target Samuel Eto'o also played in the opposition line-up.  They reckon there is little chance of a permanent transfer for the Cameroon striker.
  The paper claims Spurs will not be pursuing their interest in Bertrand Robert of Montpellier.
  Sergei Rebrov completed his loan move to Fenerbache today, where he will stay for 18 months.
  Glenn Hoddle feels that Sven Goran Eriksson should give consideration to Dean Richards playing in the England defence.
  Reserve defender Stephen Kelly has joined Southend United on a  months loan.


Wednesday  29.1.2003   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Spurs were beaten 0-1 by Newcastle tonight.  For a match report, click here.  For reaction, click here.
  Tim Sherwood finally moved from Tottenham today.  His personal choice was the option of a transfer to Portsmouth.  He has signed until the end of the current season.  Spurs might get £200,000 for him should Pompey be promoted.


Tuesday  28.1.2003   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Sergei Rebrov has passed his medical at Fenerbache and is close to finalising the loan deal to the Turkish club.  Hoddle did not want to respond to criticism of him by the departing Ukrainian and said that he wished the player well in his new start and praised the striker's attitude in training.  The manager also said that this deal is only a loan and maybe Rebrov would return to show what he is capable of one day.
  Hoddle said that he is still trying to bring another player in at Tottenham, but time was running out before the transfer window closes.  He said that the market is very difficult these days and that it could be a close thing as to another arrival makes it in to the Lane.
  Tim Sherwood is supposedly on his way to Portsmouth according to the local South Coast press.  However, he has still been in talks with West Bromwich Albion and it remains to be seen what he decides to do.
  TOTTENHAM TEAM NEWS : -  While Jamie Redknapp is just starting light training, there are no new injury doubts for the match tomorrow.
  NEWCASTLE UNITED TEAM NEWS : - Andy Griffin is injured and suspended, while Clarence Acuna misses the match for personal reasons.  Titus Bramble joins the squad after injury.
  A bit ahead of itself, the draw for the quarter finals of the FA Youth Cup has taken place and has given Spurs another away tie should they overcome Crystal Palace or Notts. County.  The trip will be to Middlesbrough, Luton Town or Barnsley.


Monday  27.1.2003   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Yazuyuki Toda completed his £200,000 12 month loan signing today and pronounced that he is the Japanese "Nicky Butt" !!  Glenn Hoddle had done his homework on the player by asking former Spurs management team Steve Perryman and Ossie Ardiles about the midfielder who was in their side at Shizimu S-Pulse and they were both glowing in their praise.  Toda will wear the 44 shirt at Spurs and Hoddle said he was a hard tackling, ball-holding, energetic midfielder who will be a good signing for the club.
  To tie in with this, the Spurs website carried an item saying that Glenn Hoddle has told Steffen Freund that he will net be offered a new contract when his current deal expires in the summer.  Hoddle said he thought it fair to Freund, who had been a very good player for Tottenham,  to mention it earlier rather than later.
  Middlesbrough have denied that Spurs have made a move for striker Alen Boksic.
  The Daily Mirror reckon that Spurs will return to Bolton Wanderers with an improved offer for Michael Ricketts of £4 million plus the choice of Gary Doherty or Steffen Iversen. 
  Simon Davies has been included in the Wales squad to play Bosnia in a friendly on February 12th in Cardiff.
  Sergei Rebrov was expected to complete the paperwork on his move to Fenerbache today after passing the medical at the Turkish club.  However, he revealed that Galatasaray nearly signed him in a last bid attempt to steal him away from their fierce rivals.
  The Republic of Ireland are set to name former national youth coach Brian Kerr as their senior manager tomorrow and it is rumoured that he will take Spurs coach Chris Hughton as his assistant.  This is thought to be a part-time role and that manager Glenn Hoddle has sanctioned the move, although it will have to go before the board to be ratified.
  Reports indicate that Paul Gascoigne has signed for struggling Chinese second division side Gansu Tianma.  They have signed the 35 year old ex-Spurs midfielder as the "spiritual leader" of the team.


Sunday  26.1.2003   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  The Sunday Mirror have an exclusive that says that Glenn Hoddle is to put in a bid for Middlesbrough's Alen Boksic.  The Spurs boss sees the Croatian striker as a short term replacement for Sergei Rebrov and with Boro shelling out £60,000 a week in wages, they might be happy to let him go to save cash.  The report claims that his contract is up in June, but Spurs might offer a small fee of around £300,000 to tempt manager Steve McClaren to part with the big forward.
  Turkey bound Sergei Rebrov has claimed that Glenn Hoddle ruined his chances of making it big at Tottenham.  He said that after being signed by George Graham, the incoming boss has taken a long time in telling him that he had no future at White Hart Lane and that Hoddle broke his heart in doing so.  He feels that if the former England manager had not arrived at Spurs, he could have gone on to have been a star at Tottenham.  Rebrov added that he was looking for a fresh start after his disappointing time at Spurs.  The News of the World claim that Fenerbache have paid around £600,000 for the 18 month loan and have an option to buy at the end of that time for £1.2 million.
  Outcast Tim Sherwood is back in talks with West Bromwich Albion about a move to the Hawthorns.  This sees a turnaround in his position of wanting to stay at White Hart Lane until the summer.
  Jonathan Blondel has told the Spurs website that he feels more settled in England now that his Belgian girlfriend Priscilla has joined him.  he said that he has been playing better and feels that going out rather than being cooped up in his flat, has helped.  The Belgian international said that he hoped to get a regular spot on the bench and break into the first team for a game or two, but would be playing hard for the reserves and in training.
  Former Spurs player and manager Terry Venables has spoken about his problems at Leeds United and included this comment about his investment at Tottenham ... "I stuck all my money in at Tottenham some years ago because I cared for the club — ridiculous when I look back, but it felt so right at the time. So I know what it is like to get carried away in the emotion of football."
  The latest club to offer former Tottenham man Paul Gascoigne a chance to play again is non-league Eastleigh, who boast Matthew Le Tissier as one of their squad.


Saturday  25.1.2003   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Sergei Rebrov is close to completing an 18 month loan deal to Fenerbache.  The Turkish side will have an option to buy him at the end of that time.
  Kazuyuki Toda has completed his medical and has just a few personal terms to resolve, the official site said today.  Football 365says that the club hope to complete the deal on Monday.
  Roque Junior, the AC Milan central defender, is once again being linked with Spurs and there is said to be a last ditch effort to bring him to White Hart Lane, with the Italian club ready to off-load the Brazilian.
  Tottenham have allowed Dean Marney to stay on at Swindon Town for a second month.
  Spurs Under-17s beat Arsenal at Spurs Lodge today 3-1.  Their goals were scored by Andy Barcham 2 and Owen Price.
  Former Spurs midfielder Paul Gascoigne's latest suitors are a Russian club from Siberia, Torpedo-ZIL.


Friday  24.1.2003   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Japanese international Kazuyuki Toda will sign for Tottenham in a one-year loan deal if he passes a medical over the weekend.  The 25-year-old midfielder from Shimizu S-Pulse player agreed to the transfer today and has been granted a work permit, so there is no problem on that front.  The fin-haired player had been training with Sunderland with a view to joining them, but he has chosen Spurs, who were linked with a move for him just after the World Cup last summer.  Glenn Hoddle said that the benefits of the signing will become clear when Toda plays.  Glad to see that the red hair has gone now he will don a Spurs shirt !!
  The London Evening Standard carries a report that sees "sources close to Daniel Levy" making counter-claims that it was Fenerbache who walked away from the Rebrov deal as they would not provide guarantees over the £1 million transfer fee.
  Rather than Birmingham City, the London Evening Standard claim that Spurs played Aston Villa in a behind closed doors friendly today.  Toda was a spectator at the game.
  Swindon Town would like to extend Dean Marney's loan spell until the end of the season.
  Spurs players have chipped in to sponsor their Ladies counterparts in a new deal encouraged by Teddy Sheringham.  Click here for more details and photos.


Thursday  23.1.2003   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Sergei Rebrov missed two flights to Turkey yesterday as he was due to have talks with Fenerbache in Istanbul.  The Ukrainian striker is the subject of speculation that he will move to the Turkish side, but the clubs have yet to agree on a 1.2 million deal.  
  Sky report that the deal has fallen through and other sources cite Tottenham upping the price they wanted at the last minute for the breakdown.  Rebrov's agent said the player is very unhappy at having to stay at White Hart Lane.  Why is that ?  I thought he said he could leave for nothing if the club didn't play him ... then he can go where he wants.  Something his agent now seems to be denying after saying the player cannot move unless Spurs say so !! Confused ?  You will be !!
  Spurs will play Birmingham City behind closed doors at White Hart Lane tomorrow as both sides are without a fixture on Saturday.
  Derby County striker Malcolm Christie's move to Middlesbrough has been put off as an "un-named" Premiership team came in with a late bid.  It is believed that Tottenham might have looked at the England Under-21 forward after Bolton Wanderers put up the price for Michael Ricketts.
  Tim Sherwood is happy to stay at Tottenham, pick up his wages and not play, as he wants to keep his options open at the end of the season, when he will be a free agent.
  Goran Bunjevcevic will be suspended from the away game at Chelsea on February 1st after picking up his fifth booking of the season at Villa Park last Saturday.


Wednesday  22.1.2003   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Newcastle United rebuffed a bid by Tottenham to move their League game forward to Saturday 25th January from Wednesday 30th.  Manager Bobby Robson said that as neither club has had many Saturday games, he can understand the Spurs move, but his side play Bolton Wanderers tonight and therefore, he wanted the extra time for his players to recover from their exertions.
  Real Madrid have said that Fernando Morientes has t leave the club to allow younger players to come through.  They say he is blocking the path of Javier Portillo and that might spark Tottenham into further negotiations with the player to bring him to White Hart Lane.
  It is reported on the Internet that Italian club Perugia have entered the chase for Sergei Rebrov and are believed to be ready to offer Nicola Amoruso in exchange for the Ukrainian.
  Hilarious rumour of the day from Zoomsoccer, who put forward the notion that Arsenal are set to make a £2 million bid for Sergei Rebrov.
  Sam Allardyce's ever-changing moods swung again today, when he claimed there are ways around a transfer fee and he would consider a swap deal !!
  Tim Sherwood's move to Portsmouth has been all but agreed, with the player believed to be holding out for Spurs to pay up his contract before he will leave.
  Inter Milan's Luigi Di Biagio is the focus of interest from Spurs and Fulham.  The international midfielder has been linked with both clubs in the past and this story appears to have been dug up from a while back.
  The official website reports that Jamie Redknapp reckons he will be back in action in three weeks time following his broken toe.
  Romania's Universitatea Craiova are the latest team to offer Paul Gascoigne a trial.


Tuesday  21.1.2003   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Les Ferdinand left Spurs to join West Ham United for an undisclosed fee today after almost six years at Tottenham.  He has signed until the end of the season.
  Spurs have pulled out of any move for Bolton Wanderers striker Michael Ricketts, saying that they are not interested at £6 million.  The club will now look at other targets, but should the Trotters drop the asking price they might re-new their attention.  If you believe the Mirror, Spurs are offering a choice of Neil Sullivan, Gary Doherty or Chris Perry plus £1 million.
  Teddy Sheringham has revealed that he played through the Christmas and New Year games with a painful knee after kicking the ground in training.
  Sergei Rebrov's claim that he can walk away from the club in the summer if he has not taken part in 10% of the games, seems to have some substance.  He would have to appeal to the FIFA Disputes Resolution Chamber (no, really) at the end of the season and they would decide if it was possible for him to breach his contract and leave on a free.
  Spurs reserves lost 1-3 on the South Coast tonight after Ben Thatcher had given them the lead.
  Spurs have made one signing in the transfer window already.  Rushden and Diamonds Head Groundsman Paul Knowles is joining the staff at White
Hart Lane this coming Friday.  The Nene Park pitch has received a lot of praise from visiting teams and it is hoped that Paul can use his magic on the Spurs turf.  (Thanks to Paul L. for that news)


Monday  20.1.2003   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Fenerbache are finally ready to pay the £1 million fee that Spurs had agreed with Fulham for Sergei Rebrov.  The Chairman of the Turkish club was expected in London today to enter into talks about the move which will only go ahead if it is a permanent transfer and not a loan.  Fulham have given up hopes of signing the Ukrainian and blame his agent for scuppering the transfer.
  Tm Sherwood appears to be on the verge of a move to Portsmouth according to the London Evening Standard.  Despite being in attendance at the Watford v Norwich City match yesterday, the paper suggests that he will be going to Fratton Park in the next few days and Spurs will not get a fee unless Pompey are promoted at the end of the season.
  Despite Gudni Bergsson saying that Michael Ricketts should forget a move to Tottenham in the Bolton Evening News, it is understood that the player has handed in a transfer request.  The club have said that they are disappointed, but if they get an offer reflecting his worth, they will not stand in his way.
  Middlesbrough appear to have ended their interest in Les Ferdinand.  
  Internet shopping site "Go Soccer" voted Neale Barry as Aston Villa's Man of the Match for last Saturday's encounter with Spurs !!  They decided that there was no player in claret and blue that deserved the award.
  St. Pauli have turned down former Spurs midfielder Paul Gascoigne and said they had never enquired about him.


Sunday  19.1.2003   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Ledley King's fastest Premier League goal record is still intact, after Sky timed Alan Shearer's goal yesterday against Manchester City at 10.4 seconds.  Ledley's strike against Bradford City in 2000 clocked in at 9.4. seconds.  So, he's still a ... Record Breaker !!
  Sergei Rebrov is reported in the News of the World to be ready to follow Tim Sherwood's lead and sue Tottenham for not playing him.  The story also claims that he might invoke a little known FIFA ruling that if a player does not play 10% of the team's matches, he can walk away from the club for nothing.
  Apparently, Millwall fancy taking Steffen Freund for £1 million and are also keeping an eye on the Teddy Sheringham situation, as they might offer him a return to the New Den, the current home of one of his former clubs.    
  Former Spurs midfielder Paul Gascoigne has been training with the Liaoning Bird club in China, but they say that he is weak and his passing is bad, so cannot sign him, just because he was famous.  It is said that St. Pauli of the German Second Division are now interested in Gazza.


Saturday  18.1.2003   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Spurs beat Aston Villa 1-0 at Villa Park this afternoon.  Teddy Sheringham scored the goal that gave Tottenham the three points.  For a match report, click here.  Reaction will feature here tomorrow.
  Glenn Hoddle said today that he felt it was the right time for Sergei Rebrov to move on from Tottenham, as he had been given chances to prove himself in the Premier League and had failed to do so.
  Apparently, Sam Allardyce has set Spurs a deadline to come up with the money Bolton Wanderers want for Michael Ricketts, with the Trotters boss wanting seven days before the transfer window closes to replace the former Walsall striker.
  Spurs Under-19s beat Charlton Athletic at Spurs Lodge today 2-0 with two goals by Jamie Slabber.


Friday  17.1.2003   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Sergei Rebrov is having a meeting with Fulham today to try and sort out personal terms, but Fenerbache still attract him.  With the prospects of better wages and even Champions League football, the Turkish club might yet step in to beat Fulham to the punch.
  Yesterday's story about Middlesbrough wanting Les Ferdinand, turns out to be one that has them taking the striker to the Riverside Stadium on loan until the end of the season, but of course this breaches Premier League rules !!  I think they want to sign him on a deal lasting for four months until the end of the season was what they meant to say.
  TOTTENHAM TEAM NEWS : - Knee injury victims Teddy Sheringham and Dean Richards will have fitness tests to see if they are ready to play against Aston Villa.  Both trained this morning.  Steffen Freund is available again after his one match suspension served by missing the Everton game.  Les Ferdinand is another option up front, as his three-match suspension is now over and Ben Thatcher should be recovered from his food poisoning.  Anthony Gardner and Matthew Etherington could make the bench.
  ASTON VILLA TEAM NEWS : - Steve Staunton has recovered quickly from a double hernia operation and is expected to be in the squad for tomorrow's match, but defender mark Delaney is back in training but not set for a first team return yet following a broken foot.  Mustapha Hadji (hamstring) and Oyvind Leonhardsen both miss the match with injury.
  Montpellier's midfielder Bertrand Robert has admitted that Tottenham have been in contact with him about a move to England.  However, Planet Football reports that the club have not decided if they want to buy the 19 year old or his team-mate Fode Mansare, the 23 year old midfielder.
  Swindon Town are keen to keep Dean Marney on loan for three more months after he impressed manager Andy King, who believes that the former links that Hoddle and Gorman had with the Robins will help his cause.
  Spurs have been investing in youth during the week.  Welsh Under-15 striker Scott Thyer has signed a three year deal, joining in May when he finishes school and England Under-17 midfielder Jamie O'Hara has arrived at White Hart Lane after a compensation fee was paid to Arsenal.


Thursday  16.1.2003   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Sergei Rebrov is talking over a move to Fulham and the deal could be done in the next 24 hours.  Depending on the source, the fee Tottenham will receive is between £1 million and £3 million.  He has had a medical this afternoon and is close to agreeing terms on a two and a half year contract with the West London club.
  With no luck trying to tempt Fernando Morientes to White Hart Lane, Tottenham are looking at Sporting Lisbon's Brazilian Mario Jardel, who is keen to leave Portugal and would cost around £2 million.  The lanky striker was Golden Boot winner for Europe last season with 42 goals and the Daily Express states that Hoddle has already made an approach for him.
  David Pleat has slammed reports coming out of Bolton Wanderers that Spurs have acted improperly in any approach for their striker Michael Ricketts.  The Director of Football said that Spurs had spoken directly to the manager and chairman of the Northern club and any comment to the contrary was unfair and unsporting.
  Some reports have it that Les Ferdinand is having talks with Middlesbrough.
  Portsmouth might make Tim Sherwood their last signing before the transfer window closes, as chairman Milan Mandaric says that the spending has to stop somewhere.


Wednesday  15.1.2003   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Tottenham's move for Michael Ricketts is near collapse according to the London Evening Standard, as Spurs have only offered Gary Doherty and £1 million.  Bolton Wanderers were ready to accept Gary Doherty (worth £1.5 million) and £1.5 million in cash, but now the Trotters find the need to ask for £3 million in addition to the Irish defender-cum-striker.  Another report has the Bolton chairman as saying that they do not want exchange players, but want £6 million straight cash (probably in used fivers).  They just don't know what they want, do they readers ??
  Soccernet reports that Glenn Hoddle might go back to Real Madrid in the summer for Fernando Morientes on a permanent deal, as the Spanish club are not willing to let him go until then.  Hoddle believes that there may be more money to spend if the club has qualified for Europe by then.
  David Pleat told the London Evening Standard that Simon Davies is not for sale at any price.  The Director of Football said that anyone enquiring about the player will be politely told that he is not for sale.
  Pleat also added that the club would sit down in the last week of the season to discuss the contracts of those players whose deals run out in the summer.
  Dean Richards is likely to be back playing soon, after returning to training following bruising to the back of his knee.
  Sergei Rebrov wants to know that Jean Tigana will still be manager of Fulham next season, should he sign for them.  The striker didn't want o fall into the same situation that he did at Tottenham, where he signed for one manager and then found himself playing under a new boss, who didn't fancy him, very soon.
  Spurs target, Gillingham's Marlon King, has been ruled out of the game for six to eight weeks with a knee injury.
  Planet Football concentrates on the rumour linking watching Spurs scouts with Bertrand Robert, the 19 year old brother of Newcastle United's Laurent.  They report that he would probably be available for 1.5 million Euros.
  Ipswich Town have denied that Lars Hirschfeld is to join the First Division side on loan.
  The club site reveals that the Spurs reserve side travelled to Northampton Town to lay a behind closed doors match against the Cobblers, which ended in a 1-1 draw, with Les Ferdinand scoring a late goal.
  Spurs' Youth side won their FA Youth Cup Fourth Round tie against Swindon Town at White Hart Lane tonight 1-0.  Jamie Slabber scored the goal four minutes form the end.  For a match report click here.  They will now face Notts. County or Crystal Palace in the Fifth round.


Tuesday  14.1.2003   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Sergei Rebrov said that he might prefer a move to Fenerbache over Fulham, as he feels he will have a better chance of playing first team football in Turkey.  While his agent says that the player is happy to stay and prove himself in England and it would mean he wouldn't have to move, the striker obviously has different ideas.
  Steffen Freund said that he might have to move on to ensure he has a future in the game, because Spurs have made no moves to offer him a new deal with his current one running out in the summer.  He says that he wants to continue for two more years, but acknowledges that it might not be at Spurs.
   Milan Rapaic has confirmed he has received an offer from a London club.  The deal would only be on a short term basis and it remains to be seen if the Croatian is one that Spurs are willing to take on for a few months.
  The London Evening Standard reports that Spurs will sign Michael Ricketts once Sergei Rebrov has left the club and Bolton Wanderers have signed Shaun Goater from Manchester City.  The latter move is dependent on Robbie Fowler moving from Leeds United to Maine Road.  Gary Doherty will supposedly be part of the deal to take Ricketts and there will be a sum of money to add to the worth of the Spurs defender.
  Gillingham have said that they have not had an official approach for their striker Marlon King form Tottenham.  The player who is rated at £5 million is seemingly happy to stay at Priestfield for the time being and it would take a sizable offer to part him from the Gills.
  Tottenham's FA Youth Cup Fourth round tie against Swindon Town is to be played at White hart lane tomorrow night - kick off 19.00 p.m.  Entry is £3 adults and £1 children under 16 and OAPs.  Season ticket holders will be able to have free entry if they produce their voucher books for inspection.
  Former Spurs youth player Junior McDougald scored the second goal in Dagenham and Redbridge's 2-0 win over Plymouth Argyle tonight.  Another Spurs junior, Mark Janney was in the team and Danny Hill was an unused substitute.


Monday  13.1.2003   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Kept out of yesterday's match by flu, Sergei Rebrov may get his wish with a move away from White Hart Lane.  Fulham are considering a £3 million bid for the Ukrainian international striker, with Tottenham looking keen to do business.  With Hoddle having to offload players from the wage bill, the money that Rebrov would bring in could go towards funding a move for Michael Ricketts, or so the story in the London Evening Standard goes.
  Ben Thatcher missed the Everton game with food poisoning.
  Robbie Keane almost missed out against the Toffees, but treatment from the club dentist on the morning of the game made him available for selection.
  Former Spurs keeper Espen Baardsen said he was rusty as he had not played a game for a while and that he injured his hip early in the second half.  The Norwegian said that Spurs players shot on that side every time after the injury !!
  Lars Hirschfeld is currently training with the Canada squad in preparation for their international match against the USA.
  West Bromwich Albion are supposedly in talks with the agent of Tim Sherwood about a move to the Hawthorns.
  Marcus Bent has told the Evening Star that he s flattered by being linked with Tottenham, but is concentrating on getting Ipswich Town back into the Premiership.  It has been rumoured that a £3 million move for the former Palace and Sheffield United striker may be on the cards.
  Tottenham are vying with Bolton Wanderers for the services of Milan Rapaic, the Croatian who has had his Fenerbache contract annulled, leaving him a free agent.  The 29 year old midfielder, who plays on the left side, has admirers in Italy and may seek a short term deal until the end of the season, when it is said that Parma might try and buy him. 
  Once more Tottenham are being linked with a move for Parma's Romanian striker Adrian Mutu, but will face competition from Liverpool for the forward.


Sunday  12.1.2003   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Spurs beat Everton 4-3 this afternoon at White Hart Lane thanks to Robbie Keane's first hat-trick for the club and a goal from Gus Poyet.  For Reaction, click here.  A match report will follow.
  The Sunday Express reports that Glenn Hoddle is seeking to sign Lee Bowyer when he becomes a free agent at the end of this season.  Despite signing for West Ham United, he has only done so for six months and will be able to move on then should he wish.  The story claims that Daniel Levy does not feel that Bowyer would present a good image for the club, but Hoddle hopes to change his opinion over the next four months.
  Sergei Rebrov's agent claims the player is close to having a breakdown, because he cannot get first team football or get away from Spurs.  The agent later denied that this was the case.  Glenn Hoddle told the official website that the Ukrainian striker would have been on the bench to day, but for his illness.
  Speaking on TalkSport, Gillingham chairman Paul Scally said that if Tottenham wanted the club's striker Marlon King, they would have to pay at least £5 million.
  Midfielder Tim Sherwood has said in the Sunday press that he intends to sue Tottenham for discrimination.  He claims that as he has not been picked for the first team, he should be recompensed for his loss.  His agent, Eric Hall, said he has taken legal advice and they will look at proceeding against the club.  How many players will be following his lead, just because they cannot get into the side remains to be seen.  Oh, and he has hardly set the world alight in the reserves in an attempt to show that he is worth a place in the team.  The club have said on the Spurs website, that they will deal with such matters internally and not respond to the press.
  Peterborough United manager Barry Fry says he hopes Manchester United sign Simon Davies, as this will save his club from extinction.  The Posh have a 15% sell-on clause in the contract and should the Welsh midfielder be sold for £6 million, the £500,000 debts the Second Division club have could be wiped out.
  Ex-Spurs goalkeeper Espen Baardsen revealed that he nearly joined Arsenal.  Having had his contract cancelled by Watford, he had agreed to join Everton, but a couple of hours later Arsenal phoned as they needed cover for their goalkeeping crisis.


Saturday  11.1.2003   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  TOTTENHAM TEAM NEWS : - Teddy Sheringham and Dean Richards will probably have late fitness tests before the side is finalised.
  EVERTON TEAM NEWS : - Joseph Yobo is likely to play after training this week, but Alan Stubbs definitely misses out with a twisted ankle.  Pistone and Watson could bolster the defence after overcoming injuries, while Kevin Campbell is touch and go to play up front.  Brian McBride, the American loanee, stands by in case of a relapse.
  Fenerbache have said that they have put the transfer talks regarding Sergei Rebrov on hold because of the cost of his purchase.
  West Bromwich Albion are keen to take Tim Sherwood to The Hawthorns to help their relegation battle.
  Rumour is spreading that Michael Ricketts is to leave Bolton Wanderers after he was left out of the squad for their match today against Fulham.  Tottenham have expressed strong interest in the young forward. 
  Rosario Central striker, Luciano Figueroa is in taalks with a Premiership club aboout a transfer, but it is not Tottenham.  A few months back, Spurs were said to be keen on the Argentinian striker, but now another side is negotiating for his signature, but a hitch has occurred as a percentage of the player had been sold to Independiente.
  Spurs Under-17 side lost 1-2 away to Aston Villa this morning.  Danny Jones scored the Tottenham goal.


Friday  10.1.2003   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Glenn Hoddle has asked to be judged at the end of the season on his time at Tottenham.  He told the Daily Mirror that he has half an eye on the long term picture at Spurs and while he is disappointed at going out of the FA Cup, he sees a lot to play for still this season.
  The loan signing of Fernando Morientes from Real Madrid seems to be the subject of some conjecture.  Firstly, it was said he was interested in joining Spurs, as he was thankful for the manager's interest and playing in the Premier League appealed to him.  But later in the day his agent was quoted as saying that he would not come on loan, implying that he might only be interested in a permanent deal.
  With all the confusion over the arrival of Morientes, Les Ferdinand has said that he might have to remain at White Hart Lane until the end of the season. He is convinced that he will not be allowed to leave unless Spurs bring in a new striker and even that could be complicated, should Sergei Rebrov get out of Tottenham first.  He said on his Icons website that he understands the club's position, but he would like to move to get first team football as soon as possible.
  It is said in the London Evening Standard that Gary Doherty plus £1 million pounds might secure the signing of Michael Ricketts from Bolton Wanderers.  Alternatively, the club would accept a cash deal if the price was right to allow them to bring in quality loan players.
  The Tim Sherwood saga rolls on with he and his agent apparently attending a full board meeting to discuss the comments about him never being picked for the first team again.  Having written a letter of grievance to the board about the actions taken, he met with them, his agent and his PFA representative to try and thrash things out.  The London Evening Standard reveal that the midfielder has been training apart from the first team squad and wants his contract paid up in full before he leaves.  However, Spurs have agreed a financial package should he leave to join a team on lesser terms than his present deal offers.
  TOTTENHAM TEAM NEWS : - Knee injuries cast doubts over Dean Richards and Teddy Sheringham. Simon Davies has recovered from an ankle injury.  Les Ferdinand is still suspended.
  Jamie Redknapp will return from a holiday break next week to start light training after his broken toe has kept him out of the first team picture.
  David Pleat has denied that Spurs are in the hunt for disgruntled Celtic midfielder Neil Lennon.
  Stephen Clemence completed his £900,000 move to Birmingham City today.
  Tottenham Under-19s home game against Aston Villa at Spurs Lodge tomorrow morning has been postponed because of a frozen pitch.


Thursday  9.1.2003   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Bolton Wanderers have not received a bid from Tottenham for Michael Ricketts according to the Bolton Evening News.  However, boss Sam Allardyce admitted a swap deal had been mooted and said that he would be interested in a few of the Spurs players, but the financial deal for his striker was not right at the moment.  The story originated in the Sun and contained a quote from Allardyce that said Ricketts would probably love to play for Tottenham, as he certainly would.  Sorry Sam, we have enough centre-halves at the moment !!
  However, there is better news on the Fernando Morientes front, with Tottenham ready to sign him until the end of the season, with an option to make the transfer permanent at the end of the season, as Real Madrid are willing to part with the forward.  The only stumbling block is that Hoddle will have to shift some big wage earners off the salary bill before he can meet the Spaniard's £40,000 a week pay, the Daily Star tells us.
  The Sun revealed that Tim Sherwood's agent has said that he was told by David Pleat that the player would not feature in a Tottenham first team as long as Glenn Hoddle was manager and it was for personal reasons, not anything to do with his ability.  The story has been denied by Hoddle in the London Evening Standard, who said he has not spoken to agent Eric Hall since he was Chelsea manager.  The midfielder has been linked with a move to Newcastle United as cover for the injured Gary Speed.  
  Later still, Hall claimed that he did not say Hoddle was the origin of these comments and that it must have be David Pleat who the Spurs manager should direct his anger at.  
  Ipswich Town's Marcus Bent is Hoddle preference for the striker's role according to the Daily Mail.  The player's agent said that Premiership clubs were being put off by Ipswich Town's asking price.  
  The deal to take Stephen Clemence to Birmingham City is initially priced at £200,000, but will rise to £900,000 should they stay in the Premier League.  Clemence said that he had become frustrated by his lack of opportunity in the Spurs side and despite having been at the club since he was 14, he did not find it a difficult decision to make as he craves first team football.
  Manchester United's £8 million offer for Simon Davies is supposed to materialise next week to "test Glenn Hoddle's resolve to hold onto the Welsh midfielder" or some other cliche.
  The official Spurs site reported that Christian Ziege visited Spurs Lodge today and although he is a long way off playing football again, he was in good spirits.
  Les Ferdinand is unlikely to move on until his suspension is served, ending on Sunday.
  Robbie Keane is already thinking about leaving Tottenham as he said he will one day play for Celtic.  He did say he was very happy at the moment.
  Fava Passaro, who prefers to be called Dino Fava, has said that he is not intending to leave Serie B side Triestina, but if he did, he fancies a crack at English football.
  The manager of the Turkish national team has suggested that Tottenham are among a group of Premiership clubs who would like to take central defender Alpay off Aston Villa's hands.


Wednesday  8.1.2003   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Tottenham are after Bolton Wanderers striker Michael Ricketts according to the London Evening Standard.  The Trotters forward could be available for as little as £3 million.  The deal might include some players going the other way, with Les Ferdinand not being keen to go North and the others in the frame being Tim Sherwood, Ben Thatcher and Gary Doherty.
  Chris Perry believes that he is currently playing for a new contract at Tottenham.  talking to TeamTalk, the defender said that things are going Ok at the moment, but he knows that he must keep turning in good performances to impress the management.
  A rumour linking Tottenham with Ipswich Town's striker Marcus Bent has been said to be out of the question if they are asking for £3 million for the former Crystal Palace man.
   West Bromwich Albion are said to be keen to challenge West Ham United in their bid to sign Les Ferdinand, after a proposed move for Derby County's Malcolm Christie has been dropped.
   Tottenham are supposed to be among a number of clubs watching Serie B Triestina's striker Fava Passaro.  The 25 year old is near the top of the Italian Second Division scoring chart with ten goals.  Sunderland, Middlesbrough have watched the player too, as well as Spanish sides Villareal and Espanyol.
   Both Alton Thelwell and Anthony Gardner came through the reserve win over Wimbledon and hope that their injury nightmares are now over.
  Reserve team manager Colin Calderwood has praised Jonathan Blondel for his best game yet for the team against Wimbledon on Monday.  Perhaps he might get a place in the first team squad now then !!
  The Youth team face Swindon Town at White Hart Lane on Wednesday 15th January with a 7.00 p.m. kick off.  Should they win this FA Youth Cup Fourth round match, they will be away at Crystal Palace or Notts. County in the next round, should they get through.
  Next Monday's (13th January) reserve match at Stevenage Borough FC against Coventry City has been postponed.  This is due to an FA Cup replay and the Youth team's progress in the FA Youth Cup.
  Reserve striker Steven Ferguson has returned to Tottenham from a loan spell at Motherwell.


Tuesday  7.1.2003   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  One newspaper report has it that Tottenham are considering swapping Simon Davies for Liverpool's Emile Heskey.  The Daily Star think that the Spurs midfielder will be traded for the lumbering England forward, as Houllier nips in ahead of Alex Ferguson for the Welshman's services.
  Kasey Keller is close to signing a one year extension to his Tottenham contract.  Apparently, Glenn Hoddle had to intervene in negotiations as the board would not sanction a pay rise for the American keeper, despite his contract allowing it after a certain number of appearances.
  Teddy Sheringham said the tam were embarrassed by the margin of defeat against SCBC in the FA Cup on Saturday, putting the defeat down to not starting the game at the right tempo.  Once behind they found it difficult to break back into the match.  One would have thought there was more to feel embarrassed about than just the margin of defeat.
  Rotherham United manager Ronnie Moore has tried, unsuccessfully, to take Matthew Etherington on loan to MiIlmoor.
  Bundesliga side  Eintracht Frankfurt have withdrawn from the race for Sergei Rebrov's signature because of his high wages.  Turkish club Fenerbache are still reported to be interested in the Ukrainian striker.
  EVERTON TEAM NEWS : - Alan Stubbs could be doubtful for Sunday's match with an ankle problem and Kevin Campbell is struggling to overcome a calf injury.  This could mean a recall for Radzinksi or a debut for American loanee Brian McBride.  Loan signing, Egyptian Ibrahim Said could play after getting international clearance, while Steve Watson and Tony Hibbert will miss the game through injury, but Joseph Yobo and Alessandro Pistone could be fit.  Thomas Gravesen, Wayne Rooney and David Weir are all suspended for the match.
  Tottenham have agreed a fee to sell Stephen Clemence to Birmingham City.  The Spurs midfielder is out of contract in the summer and yesterday said he wanted first team football, so would not take the new deal the club had offered him.  He has to thrash out personal terms, but looks set to join the Midlands outfit for an undisclosed sum, which David Pleat said the club has accepted.  Surely the club would want to know how much they were getting for Clem ??
  He will be joined at St. Andrew's by former Spurs defender Jamie Clapham, who is set to sign for Birmingham City from Ipswich Town for £1.5 million.  Perhaps ex-Spurs defender and now assistant manager at Birmingham, Mark Bowen is behind the latest buys ??
  Another former Tottenham defender is in the news, with Terry Fenwick being named as the new manager of Northampton Town.


Monday  6.1.2003   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Tottenham target Lee Bowyer has had a price agreed by West Ham United for his transfer from Leeds United.  The fee is undisclosed, but is believed to be less than £1 million.  Some reduction on the £10 million Liverpool were willing to pay last summer.  According to the Daily Mail, Spurs agreed a fee last week, but Glenn Hoddle put the block on the deal.
  Dean Richards has had a scan on his knee injury picked up on New Year's Day, but Glenn Hoddle said on the official website that it is not long-term.
  Spurs reserves beat Wimbledon 2-0 away tonight at Kingstonian FC.  Matthew Etherington, Gary Doherty and Anthony Gardner all returned to match action, as goals from the Doc and Sherwood, both laid on by Ethers, gave Spurs the win.
  Sergei Rebrov's move to Fenerbache may be off after they swooped for Russian striker Vladimir Beschastnykh of Spartak Moscow.  It is believed that Spurs may have priced themselves out of a deal for the out of favour forward.  The latest clubs said to still be interested in the Ukrainian are TSV Munich 1860 and Turkish side Galatasaray.  
  Steffen Freund told the London Evening Standard that the team lack spirit in adversity.  he said that after an event such as the first goal on Saturday, the team should pull together, but there is none of that at the moment.  He said that it is not because some players are unsure of their future at the club with contracts expiring later this year. He did say that he would ask Tottenham what they intend for him before looking around to secure his future.
  Gary Mabbutt has said to BBC Sport that he believes that Glenn Hoddle is still the man to take Tottenham forward.  He said that the purchases of older players is correct to balance the youth in the team and also that the foundations are there for years to come.  Former captain Mabbs said that the defeat will hurt, but the manager will be given time to produce what all Spurs fans desire.
  Tim Sherwood appears to top the Sunderland wanted list, as Howard Wilkinson plans to take him to the Stadium of Light.  As he will be available for a nominal fee, this suits the North East club who are low on cash.
  Stephen Clemence may choose to turn down Tottenham's offer of a new contract as he believes he should be playing regular first team football to kick start his career after injury.  TeamTalk reckon he might leave the club to ensure he gets a start in the first XI somewhere.
  Gary Doherty is one player who does want to stay and says that he has heard nothing formally about Cardiff City's interest and until he does, all he is concerned about is getting back into the Tottenham first team.
  The News of the World revealed yesterday that Paul Gascoigne is a victim of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, which he says is blighting his life.


Sunday  5.1.2003   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

   Tottenham are said by the News of the World to be ready to bid £1 million for Millwall's versatile midfielder/defender Stephen Reid.
   Charlton Athletic are said to be interested in taking Tim Sherwood and Les Ferdinand off Tottenham's hands.
   One story today details that Spurs will offer Teddy Sheringham a new one year contract, to carry on from when his current deal runs out in the summer.  The Sunday Mirror say Hoddle will thrash out a deal for the striker to stay on at the club with no change to his current salary of £30,000 a week.
   Spurs are still being named as favourites to sign Lee Bowyer from Leeds United in the summer, when he is available on a free Bosman transfer, despite heavy competition from West Ham United and Birmingham City.
  Fulham striker Luis Boa Morte has called for his manager Jean Tigana to buy Sergei Rebrov as his side have injury problems up front.
  One player who will not be joining Tottenham in the near future, is one of their rumoured targets, 19 year old striker Dmitri Sychev of Dynamo Moscow, who has joined Marseilles.


Saturday  4.1.2003   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Spurs were knocked out of the FA Cup this evening 0-4 by SCBC.  For reaction, click here.  For a match report, click here.


Friday  3.1.2003   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Christian Ziege has successfully had a second operation on his thigh injury.  The surgeon has sewn up the 10 inch incision made to relieve the pressure build up of blood in his muscle and he may leave hospital.  
  The Daily Star is claiming that Manchester United are planning a £6million bid for Simon Davies.
  TOTTENHAM TEAM NEWS : -  Les Ferdinand is suspended and Simon Davies may be unavailable after not recovering from a knee knock against Newcastle United.  Glenn Hoddle did say that he would not name his side until the last minute as there are some players with bumps and bruises from recent matches.
  SCBC TEAM NEWS : -  Marian Parhars and Austin Delgado are both out injured, while Jo Tessem hopes to replace Brett Ormerod in attack.  Jason Dodd is ruled out of the defence with injury.
  Spurious rumours are linking Tottenham with a move for defender Paul Robinson of Watford and scouts are supposed to have watched him when they played Bradford.  Charlton Athletic are also said to be watching the left back, who Tottenham are rumoured to be interested in as cover for Mauricio Taricco.
  West Bromwich Albion have joined the race to sign Les Ferdinand.
  Fenerbache's chairman is said t be flying in to London in the next few days to seal the Turkish club's move for Sergei Rebrov.
  AC Milan's Danish defender Martin Laursen has said he intends to see out the season at the San Siro stadium, but will consider his future after that.  He has not been a regular in the team and if he cannot break into the first XI, then he may leave, with Glenn Hoddle already proclaiming himself as an admirer.
  The FA announced today that all future FA Cup semi-finals will be played at Wembley, once the new stadium is completed.  The association have to guarantee so many games per season and to meet that demand, they will stage the semi-finals and final of the competition at the National stadium.


Thursday  2.1.2003   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Glenn Hoddle has denied any interest in Auxerre striker Christophe Dugarry, which is just as well as he has joined Birmingham City on loan until the end of the season.
  Simon Davies was missing from the Spurs line-up because of a kick he received on the back of the knee at Newcastle on Sunday.  Glenn Hoddle said that it is still sore and he may be a doubt for Saturday's FA Cup tie.
  Wolverhampton Wanderers are planning a loan move for Les Ferdinand, after Dean Sturridge was ruled out for eight weeks with a heel injury.  It was revealed today that West Ham United may only be seeking a loan deal until the end of the season for the veteran Spurs forward.
  The FA have told the media that the issue of ground-sharing is almost certainly out of the question at Wembley.  He said that the money form Sport England would have to be paid back and that there would also be the matter of getting Brent Council to allow the 30 or so extra events at the Stadium too.
  The London Evening Standard claim that there is a lot of opposition to the development of the site at Abridge for the Spurs Academy and that locals and Councillors are against the plan.
  Former Spurs reserve striker John Sutton has left Swindon Town before the end of a one month contract, as manager Andy King did not see him as a first team player.
  Former Spurs defender Paolo Tramezzani has left Piacenza for Atalanta in Serie A.


Wednesday  1.1.2003   (For other Spurs history on this day click here)

  Tottenham lost 0-1 this afternoon to SCBC.  For a match report, click here.  For reaction, click here.
  Sergei Rebrov may leave Tottenham soon, with crack Turkish side Fenerbache supposedly interested in his services.  German sides Munich 1860 and Eintracht Frankfurt could also come in for the Ukrainian, but no fee has been mentioned.  The player said he has been negotiating with the Turkish club, but did not want to say any more about other clubs involved, as he claimed he had been accused of selling himself to leave Spurs.
  Les Ferdinand's move to West Ham United is still on according to newspapers today.
  Tottenham hope to sign Fernando Morientes on a loan deal with a difference this week.  Real Madrid are willing to pay half of his £45,000 a week wages to get him off their own wage bill, with Spurs contributing the other 50%.
  It is rumoured that the Chinese star Qu Bo, who almost signed for Tottenham had it not been for the denial of a work permit, has been watched by Dutch club Heerenveen.

 

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