White Hot Lines

31.8.2000

  Lomano Tresor Lua Lua is not leaving Layer Road according to Colchester United manager, Steve Whitton.  The young winger from Zaire is attracting interest from Spurs and Newcastle United, but he will not be released by the Third Division side as they believe he is worth considerably more than the £1 million offered by Bobby Robson.

  Oyvind Leonhardsen looks set to return to international football with Norway after missing Euro 2000 with a heel injury.  His country face Armenia this Weekend in a World Cup qualifier.  

  Meanwhile, Spurs other injury problem during the summer has been Ledley King's broken foot.  He is on the mend now, but will be sitting watching tonight's England Under-21 game, when he wishes he could be involved.  It was in the last minute of the last game England played in the European Under 21 Championship in Slovakia that he suffered the break and he hopes to be back playing in a couple of weeks.
  Luke Young, who did start the match for England Under-21's, scored his first goal at that level in the 6-1 thrashing of Georgia at the Riverside Stadium. 

  GG has described the start of Tottenham's season as average.  He hoped to build on the first two results, but the defeat at the hands of Newcastle United has left him determined to win with the next couple of games at home.

  Former Spurs target, Wimbledon's John Hartson, has been knocked back by Glasgow Rangers after failing a medical as he is not in the right condition for their level of football (Without denigrating our Scottish readers' appreciation of their league, exactly what level you need to play in the Scottish Premier league is questionable).  The ginger fatty has been so upset by this latest blow to his bank balance, he has withdrawn from the Welsh squad due to play Portugal and is comfort eating to get over it.  His agent believes this deal will be resurrected in the future.  "Dreamer ... you know you are a dreamer ..."
  Two other former Spurs targets are rumoured to be heading off elsewhere.  Leyton Orient's young defender, Simon Downer is interesting West Ham, although Sours looked at him last season.  Drug ban Chilean Clarence Acuna is apparently likely to sign for Newcastle United for around £2 million.  Spurs were said to have a pre-contract agreement with the player before his positive drug test was announced.

30.8.2000

  Tim Sherwood and Les Ferdinand have urged Sol Campbell to stay at the club as his presence is vital to the future of Tottenham Hotspur.  

  News today that Spurs are trying to sign Colchester United's exciting young Zairian international winger, Lomano Tresor Lua Lua.  Stewart Houston apparently watched his impressive display against Oldham Athletic at the weekend and it is reckoned that £2 million would seal the deal.

  Steffen Iversen has said he has just about managed to play six games in two weeks and has now had to fly half way across Europe to play for Norway in Armenia.  

  Ramon Vega has revealed that the Swiss coach invited him to be in the squad for their game against Russia at the weekend, but Vega opted out.  He said as he had not played properly for about three weeks he would prefer to concentrate on playing for Spurs to get match fit.

  Rumour reaches us that Steve Guppy has been seen at White Hart Lane with David Pleat.  Guppy has been unhappy at the way he has been treated at the start of this season by new Leicester City boss Peter Taylor and there were rumours of him pairing up with former boss Martin O'Neill at Celtic.

  Spurs targets Boudewijn Zenden and Jari Litmannen may now both be staying at Barcelona after they have sold a number of players, but have failed to recruit too many.

  Spurs have fallen in line with other Premier League teams and scrapped a policy of no concessions for away fans.  Tottenham had been set to introduce half price tickets for children next season, but following complaints by Ipswich Town and Manchester City fans about the full-price for kids regime, they have decided to bring it in straight away.  It was one of the things in the Fan's Charter being drawn up by the Premier League, but Spurs had already set their policy, although the League have congratulated Tottenham in the "fan-friendly" action.
  Former Spurs Defender, Graham Roberts has resigned from Hertford Town, where he had been manager.
  Spurs reserves beat Bishop's Stortford in a friendly at Woodside Park tonight with goals from John Piercy 2, Yannick Kamanan and Mark Gower giving them a 4-0 win.

29.8.2000

  Spurs have said today that they do not intend to sell Sol Campbell before his contract expires.  DP says we can afford to keep him at Tottenham, but will Sol want to stay.  Nothing will be resolved until the end of the season and on 1.1.2001, he is free to talk to clubs about a pre-contract agreement.  But notably, not clubs in England, only those outside the country he plays in.

  However, Stephen Carr has said that he has been at the club for eight years and is happy here.  He feels that he should be well rewarded for his progress over the last couple of years and that the club realise this.  This sounds hopeful that he will sign a new, improved contract shortly.

  Chris Armstrong hopes to be fit for the match against Everton on Tuesday 5th September after overcoming his groin injury.  He is frustrated that the last three pre-seasons have led to him missing the build up due to injury, but he is keen to get back into the game soon.

  Steffen Iversen put his name to a new four year deal because he wants to be at Tottenham and he thinks that now the squad has been added to and the injuries have cleared up Spurs could be ready to mount a challenge further up the table.  On top of that he had some good news, when it was revealed that his hamstring strain from the Newcastle United match would not rule him out of  Norway's World Cup qualifier against Armenia on Saturday.
  GG has said that Spurs made to many mistakes on Saturday and never looked like scoring against Newcastle United.  He was unhappy about the way Tottenham lost possession when they had the ball.

  Ruel Fox, who joined West Bromwich Albion on loan to play in Saturday's match against Barnsley, has signed permanently for the Midlands club in a £200,000 two year deal.

  Neil Sullivan said he keeps working hard at Tottenham because he fears being replaced by Ian Walker.  He said he has been happy with the way he has played since he arrived at Spurs, but is wary that he must maintain a high standard of play as he is in the public eye more than with Wimbledon.  He needn't worry as GG thinks he is doing fine, even after Saturday's match.
  Darren Anderton, and manager Kevin Keegan, are both looking forward to him playing for England again.  The Spurs midfielder is hoping that his break over the summer has left him fully fit and ready to face France this Saturday.  Keegan said he had been frustrated previously when Anderton had not been fit or available, but now he is pleased he is raring to go.
  Apparently, according to onefootball.com, Tottenham have watched midfielder Sven Vermant of Club Bruges.  The player is also interesting Wimbledon and has won two Belgian caps.
  GG has admitted he is worried that injury might strike the eight payers he has away on international duty this week.

28.8.2000

  According to press reports today, Manchester United have made a £9 million bid for Sol Campbell.  The Premier League champions would need to sign him by Thursday for him to be eligible for the Champions League, but rest assured, David Pleat has put the news down to speculation.

  Stephen Carr has said that Spurs must do better away from home.  To challenge, he said, the team must put some away results together as it is all about consistency.

Ghoerghe Popescu, the former Romanian Tottenham defender has announced his international retirement.

  Willem Korsten is missing training at the moment because of his recuperation from a hip injury.  It is unlikely that he will make the squad for next Tuesday's game against Everton.

27.8.2000

  There is concern over Steffen Iversen's injury which forced him out of yesterday's game at Newcastle United.  He feels as though it is only a slight calf strain and that he will be fit for Norway's World Cup qualifier against Armenia next Saturday.

  It is reported that Spurs are close to doing business with Barcelona for the £5 million rated Finnish striker Jari Litmannen.  He has fallen out of favour after suffering injury since his transfer to Spain from Ajax.

  while Spurs are there, they should perhaps try Barca's buy one get on free deal and bring back Winston Bogarde too.  The Dutch defender/midfielder has been granted a free transfer as he does not figure in the club's plans since the departure of former manager Louis van Gaal.
  Dutchman Willem Korsten was disappointed to miss yesterday's match after picking up a hip injury.

26.8.2000

  Tottenham lost 0-2 at Newcastle United this afternoon.  For a match report click here.
  On Sky TV this afternoon, Alan Sugar was interviewed by Rodney Marsh.  He said that he took on the ownership of Tottenham on "a whim" after the club had been struggling financially and then won the FA Cup in 1991.  He also added that should there come a day when income from other sources mean that gate money is insignificant, then he would consider saying to a hardcore of around 10,000 fans that they could have their season tickets for free.  He did say that this was not a promise, but should the circumstances be right he felt it could come about.

  Apparently, Middlesbrough have agreed a fee of £8 million with Real Madrid for Steve McManaman. Tottenham are said to have a strong interest, but we will have to await the outcome of negotiations, as the England winger says he does not want to leave Real.  Whoever signs him may have a problem matching his current wage in Spain.

  Newcastle United manager Bobby Robson revealed today that he was keen to sign Sergei Rebrov, but had to drop out once the asking price got to £11 million.  

  It was also revealed that George Graham had been interested in signing Argentinian Daniel Cordone, but Newcastle United got in and offered him a trial, which lead to his permanent transfer.
  Willem Korsten missed today's match after having an operation on his hip.

25.8.2000

  It now appears that Steffen Iversen's deal is not as huge as indicated yesterday.  It has now been stated that he is still behind Anderton and Rebrov in terms of being a top earner.

  Spurs look likely to name the same team for the third match running at Newcastle United tomorrow.

  GG has said that to do well this season, it looks like you have to try and steer clear of suspensions and injury.  He hopes that Tottenham can do both and he will do his bit by not criticising referees, as he feels he was getting a reputation for it last season.

  ClubCall have stated that the man brokering the Steve McManaman transfer has said that Spurs have entered the race for his signature.  Manchester United, Aston Villa, Leeds, Middlesbrough, and Everton are all interested in bringing the floppy haired wanderer back to England, but Spurs, Boro and Chelsea are said to have made offers.

  Ruel Fox has finally joined West Bromwich Albion for a reported fee of £200,000.  Strange old Baggies manager, Gary Megson said of Fox "He will give us some quality when he gets on the ball and his arrival will mean we will also start to pass the ball better." ??

  Steffen Freund has set himself a goal for this season ... to score a goal !! He said that he had scored goals all through his career and now it is time to get one in a Spurs shirt as it would mean a lot to him.

  Neil Sullivan has been named in the Scotland squad for their trip to Latvia to play a World Cup qualifier.

24.8.2000

  Steffen Iversen has agreed to a two year extension to his current contract which will earn him nearly £29,000 a week, allegedly.  He will be tied to White Hart Lane until 2006 and the deal quashes rumours that he would move away from White Hart Lane.  David Pleat had a ill-disguised dig at Erik Soler - Iversen's agent - when he said that all parties were happy with the deal and perhaps Soler would now take a rest and concentrate on other clients in his care. 
  Stephen Carr, who has four years left on his contract, is expected to sign on for another extra year and his terms are expected to be brought into line with other first teamers at Tottenham.  The Republic of Ireland player has been attracting attention from other Premier League clubs, but this is seen as a recognition of his progress since breaking into the first team and an attempt to ward off unwanted interest.  DP said that he is the epitome of the potential of Tottenham Hotspur and the very opposite of a prima donna.  Wonder what he means by that ??

  With the two young Spurs committing their futures to Tottenham, Sol Campbell comes to the table this week with his advisers to talk about his own future.  With his contract up at the end of this season, he can move on for free, but a good season for Spurs and with the bulk of the squad signed up long term (with maybe more players to come), the decision for Sol might be that much harder to move to another club.
  Sol Campbell and Darren Anderton have both been selected in Kevin Keegan's England squad for the friendly against France.

  Steffen Iversen and Oyvind Leonhardsen have been picked in the Norway squad for a World Cup qualifier to face Armenia

  It is reported that West Bromwich Albion are finally to sign Ruel Fox for £150,000.  The out of favour Tottenham winger hopes to complete the deal before noon tomorrow to allow him to be considered for the match against Barnsley on Saturday.  Saving on his wages will make paying Carr's and Iversen's easier and money well spent.

  Chris Armstrong has recovered from his groin injury and expects to be in the squad for Saturday's trip to Newcastle United.  Meanwhile, it is unlikely that Willem Korsten will be making the journey North as he is still recovering from a hip injury.

  Manchester united reserve striker, Edward Sheringham, has revealed that his best years in football were spent at White Hart Lane.  No surprise there then, but why did he want to leave a team going nowhere if he was having such a great time ?

  Neil Sullivan has said that although he has won the manager's vote for the goalkeeping position for the first two games, he knows it will be a long hard battle to retain his place.  He said that he will have to maintain his good form to keep out England international Ian Walker.

23.8.2000

  George Graham was unhappy at having lost two points when Middlesbrough equalised in the second half last night, but he was happy with the way Tottenham played their passing game and the team's momentum to push forward.
  Steffen Iversen has said that he was disappointed after coming so close to a second successive win.  He said it was the best that Spurs have played away in a long time.
  Spurs' goalscorer Oyvind Leonhardsen thought that the game went very well for him and Spurs.  His foot was fine after the two games in four days and he says that although playing on the left, he can go more central if the chance arises.

  Ramon Vega said that he does not want to leave Spurs to join Celtic.  Although flattered by the attention, he wants to fight for his place at White Hart Lane.

  Luke Young has been selected for England's Under-21 side to play Georgia at Middlesbrough on 30 September. 

  Ledley King is making good progress with his broken foot and expects to be playing again within a month.  He said that although he has been out of the pre-season picture, GG has been checking on his recovery and that has boosted his confidence.

  Willem Korsten is hopeful of being fit soon, but is unlikely to be included in the squad for Saturday's trip to Newcastle United.

22.8.2000

  Tonight Spurs played at Middlesbrough and drew 1-1 with the Spurs goal came from Oyvind Leonhardsen.  Spurs are now behind their opponents at the top of the Premier League.  For match report click here. For reaction, click here. 

  GG has told Ian Walker that there is little to choose between the two keepers at Tottenham and that it would be a great challenge for them both to fight for the gloves.

  Stories are circulating that Mauricio Taricco is considering a return move to Ipswich Town.  It appears that these are a rehash of comments he made previously and he says that if things don't go well at Tottenham it is something he would think about as he had a good time at the Suffolk club.  He also says that he has kept in touch with players at his old club, but for now he is a Spurs player and is willing to battle for his place.

  Martin O'Neill has confirmed that he has looked at Ramon Vega.  The Swiss international has taken his eye and O'Neill was always impressed by him when Leicester City played Tottenham !!

  New rumours on TeamTalk indicate that Chelsea might be ready to enter the chase for Sol Campbell if the England centre-half decides to leave Tottenham at the end of the season.

  Former Spurs midfielder David Howells has been forced to retire from the game after suffering a knee injury from which he has not recovered.  32 year old Howells has been at Southampton since leaving Tottenham on a free transfer.

  Spurs reserves lost 0-3 at Coventry City tonight.
  Willem Korsten was unable to play his part in neither tonight's draw nor the stiffs defeat because he was found to be injured.

21.8.2000

  David Ginola has continued his criticism of George Graham by saying the Spurs manager is living on the edge.  The Frenchman feels that GG must deliver this year or he will be sacked.  He went on to say that he had given everything for three years and expected to do the same for the remaining two years in the same fashion, but said that being at Spurs now is like being in the army, with Graham as the General.  David Ginola was substituted by Aston Villa on Saturday.

    Les Ferdinand meanwhile is looking forward to playing for Spurs for even longer.  In the last year of his contract, he said he is now playing for his future with another contract, if not at Spurs, then somewhere else.  GG said it is useful to have him back to full fitness and Les is just glad to be in the squad with so much competition.

  Steffen Iversen is claiming the first goal of the season - he admits that after deflecting off Steffen Freund, it hit him before going past Neil Sullivan.  However, he thinks that the partnership with Rebrov started very well and that the next two games in the North-East will be a stern test for Tottenham.

  Oyvind Leonhardsen is the only worry for Spurs as they head for Middlesbrough.  They are waiting to see if there was any reaction on his injured heel, with Stephen Clemence standing by in case the Norwegian cannot play.

  GG has told Ian Walker that he has to stay and fight for his place in between the sticks.  He said that it was important for competition in all positions and although that isn't the case across the board with the team at the moment, it was the case for the keepers and that was why Baardsen was sold.

  David Pleat confirmed that Celtic have made an enquiry for Ramon Vega, but have not yet followed it up with a bid for the Swiss defender.
  Other news ... Patrick Vieira has been dismissed tonight for the second game in succession, in a game that saw Gary McAllister and Dietmer Hamann sent off as well. 

20.8.2000

  Ian Walker is to see George Graham tomorrow morning to have talks about his future.  Having been overlooked for the Spurs goalkeepers position in the game against Ipswich Town yesterday, he could ask for a transfer if he is not happy with the outcome of the talks.  Graham meanwhile has said that he hoped that the big squad would mean that people are ready to fight for their places, like at other clubs.

  Ramon Vega could be a £2 million target for Celtic according to the News of the World today.

  The same newspaper also reports that Ruel Fox is livid with Tottenham for refusing his pay-off to allow him to join West Bromwich Albion.  The out of favour winger said that he would be taking a 60% pay cut and how to Spurs expect him to live without any compensation.  Like the rest of us probably Ruel, that's how !!

  David Ginola, who was booked for diving on his Aston Villa debut yesterday, has revealed that George Graham pushed him out of White Hart Lane.  In his soon to be published biography - "David Ginola, le magnifique" - says that GG didn't have the courtesy to tell him to his face that he was not part of his plans and refused to block the transfer away from Tottenham.

  Chris Armstrong is attracting interest from Portsmouth, should Tottenham decide to sell the striker.
  And TeamTalk report that Steffen Freund's old club Borussia Dortmund want him back !!  Are they short of a goalscorer, I wonder ??  The £3 million asking price might deter them though.

19.8.2000

  Tottenham won their opening Premier League fixture today by 3 goals to 1 against Ipswich Town at White Hart Lane.  Click here for a match report.  Click here for reaction.

  Willem Korsten missed the game with a hip injury.
  Steve Slade, the former Spurs striker now at Cambridge United, was sent off on his debut against Bournemouth for a foul.
  Spurs had scouts at the Colchester United .v. Rotherham United match last night to run the rule over Lomano Lua Lua, the speedy, tricky winger of the Essex club.  Representatives from Arsenal, Newcastle United and Norwich City were also in attendance.

18.8.2000

  Soccernet reveal that Neil Sullivan has won the race to be the Spurs keeper in their opening Premier League fixture against Ipswich Town.  Ian Walker will be disappointed, but GG has said that this situation is not for keeps and if he feels Walker should be the best goalie at any particular time, he will include him.

  The match will see another two debuts for Spurs with Thatcher and Rebrov making their home bow, while new signing Hermann Hreidarsson and former Spur, John Scales, will appear for Ipswich for the first time, although Scales might need to face a late fitness test.  Be careful in the warm-up John.

  Sergei Rebrov has revealed that he had no problems with his leg before his move to Tottenham, but it was something that happened six years previously and had not troubled him since.  He also has had someone post under his call sign on amateur radio that he is the hottest property on paper, but crap on the pitch.  In an article in the Guardian, GG compares him with Denis Bergkamp as he comes deep, but Sergei prefers to be likened to Michael Owen.

  Ramon Vega harbours hopes of returning to his national  side, but realises that the most important thing is to get back playing for Spurs first and then move on to the Switzerland side.

  George Graham has been speaking out about the transfer system and would like to see players on big wages, who are happy to sit in the reserves collecting their pay packets, being able to move on with the clubs having that power rather than the players.  Wonder who he could be referring to ??
  The Spurs manager also revealed that he is expecting a backlash for the sale of David Ginola to Aston Villa.  He hopes that the fans will get behind the team though and that in the long term, they will see that the sale was the best thing for the club and the player.

  Tottenham have revealed that they have sold 19,000 season tickets for the 2000-01 season - a new record.  The club also stated that 27 fans had taken up the offer to accept refunds for their season tickets after David Ginola was transferred to Aston Villa.

  Ben Thatcher has said that being in the spotlight at White Hart Lane and working under GG will help him improve his disciplinary record.  He knows that any repeat of the Summerbee incident will not be repeated, so he has to knuckle down rather than knuckle up an opposing forward.  He said pre-season has been tough - he is the fittest he has ever been - and he can't wait to start playing to prove his worth to the Spurs fans.

  Willem Korsten will miss the big kick-off as he is injured.

17.8.2000

  Despite West Bromwich Albion having agreed a £150,000 fee to take Ruel Fox to the Hawthorns the deal has now been called off !!  Because Fox wanted a settlement from Tottenham to see him leave the club, the deal has fallen through and Albion boss Gary Megson says he doesn't want to hear any more about it.  David Pleat is hoping to have talks to try and get Fox to move on by the end of this week.

  Ian Walker and Neil Sullivan are to be kept waiting until Saturday to find out who is the keeper for the first game against Ipswich Town.  George Graham intends to announce his decision before the game.

  Steffen Freund has told "Kicker" (the German football magazine) that he is not worried about the new crackdown on players by referees planned this season.  He said that although no angel, he has not received a red card in England (yet !!).  He also said that he rates Sergei Rebrov highly and thinks he is exactly what Spurs need.  As for winners pf the Premier League, he considers his fellow countrymen at Liverpool will end up top.
  Rebrov himself has been saying that Spurs could get a Champions League place or even the title this season !! He said despite not having played in the Premier League yet, he knows that the Spurs squad has a lot of quality.

  Meanwhile, some good news in that Steffen Iversen looks ready to sign a contract extension with Tottenham and his agent is flying in next week to start talks.  The Norwegian said everything at Tottenham is excellent and he is hoping that if the club can avoid injuries, that it will be a very good season for Spurs.

  Tottenham pub landlords and police have joined together to ban any person convicted of football related offences from their pubs.  The initiative is aimed at making the area around the Lane a better place to be on match days.

16.8.2000

  Jari Litmanen has said that he wants to leave Barcelona as soon as possible, but prefers to go to Portugal, Greece or Spain.  So Spurs, who were rumoured to have an interest, look unlikely to get their man

  Another player not coming to Tottenham is Craig Bellamy.  The young Welsh midfielder is joining Coventry City for £6.5 million, although Wimbledon, Newcastle United and Spurs were all interested in the former Norwich City man.

  While we are on the subject, Boudewijn Zenden looks like heading for Chelsea or Fiorentina or Lazio.  Or he might just stay at Barcelona.  Whatever happens, it looks like you won't see him in a Spurs shirt.

  Another player who you probably won't be seeing much of at White Hart Lane this season is Ruel Fox.  The Spurs winger is having talks to try and resolve his future, which would involve him being paid off, so that he can join West .  The Midlands club hope for an answer before the end of the week.  So do we.
  Steffen Iversen played for Norway in their 1-3 defeat to Finland tonight.

  In a Deloitte and Touche report out yesterday, it was revealed that Tottenham's wage bill is 51% of their annual turnover.  This compares favourably with some clubs (Everton and Liverpool 80%, Southampton 84%), but Arsenal's and Chelsea's bills are 54% and 51%, while Manchester United's is 33% (but then they do have a very big turnover). 

  Ben Thatcher has his own web site at http://www.bigfanof.com/benthatcher , but beware, there is a rogue Harry Redknapp page in there !!

15.8.2000

  David Pleat has revealed that Tottenham are interested in Norwich City's Welsh striker, Craig Bellamy.  Wimbledon made a bid for him last week, but were told he was not for sale.  They offered just £3 million while Spurs are thought to be ready to go up to £4 million.  While Norwich are not keen to sell, a large bid might prise him away from Carrow Road, where he criticised the manager's tactics on Saturday.  Coventry City and Newcastle United are also ready to start bidding for the 21 year old.

  Steffen Iversen has revealed that he is concerned about burn-out this season.  Having played three matches in Euro 2000 and more or less a full season up front on his own for Spurs, the Norwegian said that players will be finishing their careers at 30 if the current amount of games continue.  Sounding like Frank Lebeouf, he went on to add that he struggled at the end of last season and almost fainted after coming in at half-time in one match.  He also said that the transfer talk linking him to Vicenza is not true and that when laying in a 4-5-1 formation for his country, he is best playing behind the front men and not as the lone striker.

  In contrast, Mauricio Taricco says that the big squads in the Premier League will lead to players sitting games out to give them a break and by working hard in training, those coming in will be ready to take their place.
  Stephen Carr has said that he does not take his position in the Spurs side for granted, with Luke Young poised to step in should the Irishman slip.  He also stated that the match against Ipswich Town on Saturday is not a foregone conclusion as they have a point to prove and Spurs are still getting into their rhythm.

  John Scales admits he was disappointed about his stay at Spurs and that "They got a minimal return for their investment. Looking back I was probably one of the worst signing in financial terms. It is frustrating for them because I will go down as a bad signing that didn't work out."  A refreshingly honest appraisal of his Tottenham career, which no doubt he did well financially out of.

  Spurs reserves fixtures for the coming season are as follows : -

2000
Tues 22 Aug	Coventry City	Away
Wed 6 Sept	Wimbledon	Away
Tues 12 Sept	Chelsea	Home (at White Hart Lane)	7.00
Tues 26 Sept	Watford	Home (at White Hart Lane)	7.00
Wed 4 Oct	Charlton Athletic	Away
Tues 17 Oct	Southampton	Home (at White Hart Lane)	7.00
Tues 24 Oct	Leicester City	Home (St. Albans)	7.30
Tues 31 Oct	Derby County	Away
Tues 14 Nov	Ipswich Town	Home (St. Albans)	7.30
Tues 21 Nov	Nottingham Forest	Away
Mon 27 Nov	Arsenal	Away
Tues 5 Dec	West Ham United	Home (St. Albans)	7.30
2001
Tues 16 Jan	Coventry City	Home (St. Albans)	7.30
Mon 22 Jan	Chelsea	Away
Tues 13 Feb	Wimbledon	Home (St. Albans)	7.30
Wed 21 Feb	Watford	Away
Tues 6 Mar	Charlton Athletic	Home (St. Albans)	7.30
Mon 12 Mar	Southampton	Away
Tues 20 Mar	Derby County	Home (at White Hart Lane)	7.00
Mon 2 Apr	Leicester City	Away
Tues 10 Apr	Nottingham Forest	Home (at White Hart Lane)	7.00
Wed 18 Apr	Ipswich Town	Away
Tues 24 Apr	West Ham United	Away
Tues 8 May	Arsenal	Home (at White Hart Lane)	7.00

Nice to see some matches at White Hart Lane after the Charlton Athletic game was played there last season.

14.8.2000

  Some good news for Spurs in that Matthew Etherington may be fit for the start of the new season.  His ankle injury picked up in the reserve friendly at Dulwich Hamlet has had the bruise come out and lost the swelling around it, so Mushy hopes to be training again this week and ready for the new campaign.  This is just what Spurs wanted to hear with Ginola gone and Korsten expected to be injured for some time to come. 

  Spurs reserves beat St. Albans 2-0 tonight at Clarence Park, with both goals from Mark Gower.  
Spurs team : - Walker, Hillier, Taricco, Davies, Thelwell, Young, Gower, Fenn, McEwen, Kamanan, Piercy. Subs: Jackson, Kelly, Consorti, Snee
  Ugo Ehiogu, the Aston Villa central defender, has now said he will see out his contract with the Midlands side and then move on a Bosman transfer in 2002.  His agent said that two clubs would be happy to wait until then to talk to him about a free move.  Spurs have constantly been linked with the Villa man because of doubt about Sol Campbell's future.

  Meanwhile, Mauricio Taricco has said he sees his future with Tottenham.  He has been told he will play for the first team because of the rotation system George Graham intends to introduce, so he will be involved in competition within the squad.
  A decision on Jari Littmanen's future at Barcelona is expected soon as the Catalan club are poised to sign Alfonso from Real Betis, thus needing to clear out some forwards from their  large squad. 
  The rumoured interest in Steffen Iversen from Vicenza has been denied by the Italian club.
  Ruel Fox's move to West Bromwich Albion is about to collapse as he cannot agree how much Spurs are going to pay him to leave !!  He has refused to talk to the manager there as he has things t sort out with Spurs, but the Midlands club might not wait for him to be ready to move and look elsewhere.  One of their other targets could be ...

  Jose Dominguez, who looks like the next one to be out of White Hart Lane once he is fit.  His Achilles injury has lead to the breakdown of his move to Greek club PAOK Salonika earlier this summer, but now West Bromwich Albion, Portsmouth and Birmingham City could be interested if the price is right.  GG has made it clear that the diminutive Portuguese winger has no lace in his future plans.
  Another former Spurs winger in the news, Garry Brady, who left to go to Newcastle United, looks like joining Barnsley after impressing Dave Bassett while on trial there.  He may be ready to sign on as he has not had a look-in at St. James' Park since his arrival two years ago.

  The Iranian midfielder Kharim Bagheri, who was thought to be heading for Tottenham, will now be shooting for Charlton Athletic.  The Valiants sealed a deal to take him to the South London club today.

  Apparently, eleven Spurs fans were arrested for running amok in Arnhem after Saturday's friendly match.  Damage and injury was done when furniture was thrown from a bar where fans were drinking and charges are pending against the men arrested.  Perhaps it is just as well we are not in Europe again this season.

  Other news ... Jonathan Woodgate, Lee Bowyer, reserve striker Tony Hackworth and two others are charged with grievous bodily harm on an Asian student in Leeds in January. Michael Duberry and Woodgate are also charged with conspiring to pervert the course of justice.  Pleas will be heard in September.
  A new ball is to be used in the Premier League apparently.  The Nike "Geo" is striking fear into keepers hearts as it swerves about too much for them !!

13.8.2000

  News that Daniel Sugar made a bid to buy out Barry Hearn at Leyton Orient last season is thought to indicate that Sir Alan Sugar may be ready to sell up his interest in Tottenham.  Football and Premier League rules say that no person or associates can hold more than 10% of shares in two different clubs and therefore, if Hearn had accepted the offer, the Spurs Chairman would have to have sold his shareholding to comply.  The bid was turned down at the time, but speculation is rife that the bid by the Enic group for Tottenham might now appeal to the knight of Tottenham.

  Following chants for Ginola at last night's friendly in Holland, GG has said he is not worried about abuse directed at him, but feels that this sort of "support" could demoralise the team and affect the progress they are trying to make.

  Apparently Steffen Iversen is a £7 million target for Vicenza of Serie A.  This has arisen out of his refusal at the moment to sign a contract extension as he wants £26,000 a week while Spurs are believed to have offered £20,000.

  The price of Tottenham shares has plummeted and this has been linked to the sale of David Ginola and the confusion over Sol Campbell's contract.  The price has dropped from 71.2p to 62.5p per share.

  Boudewijn Zenden has a number of options according to the PlanetFootball website.  There are rumours that Chelsea have been in touch with Barcelona and that and another four sides are thought to be ready to join the bidding.  These include Spurs, Fiorentina and Lazio.

12.8.2000

  Spurs beat Vitesse Arnhem tonight in their last pre-season friendly match in the Gelredome in Arnhem.  Goals from Steffen Iversen and Darren Anderton gave Spurs a 2-0 win.  For a match report click here.
Spurs team : -  Sullivan, Carr, Campbell, Perry, Thatcher (Taricco 77), Anderton (Young 77), Freund, Sherwood (Davies 77), Clemence, Ferdinand (Iversen 46), Rebrov.
Willem Korsten was missing from the team as he is believed to have undergone an operation.

  During coverage of the Vitesse match on Channel Five, Graham Roberts was the match summariser in the studio and said he was concerned about Chris Perry and thought Spurs should get another centre-half.  He considered Rebrov and excellent buy and said that Les and Darren both owed Tottenham a good season after their injuries.  He also thought that GG would have not brought Neil Sullivan to the club if he did not intend to play him, so in his opinion, the ex-Wimbledon man would start next Saturday.

  In The Sun today, Jimmy Greaves has been criticising GG saying that he is taking the Tottenham out of the club.  He also said that if he was still a player and was available, GG would not sign him as he didn't like egos that were bigger than his own.

  Tottenham have said that they would help Jose Dominguez to find a new club as he is likely to have a "frustrating" season ahead of him (roughly translated meaning he will not get a look in).  The club feel that they have a duty to do so.

SoccerUpdate have said that Spurs have told Mauricio Taricco he is free to re-join Ipswich Town as GG has no use for him now that he has signed Ben Thatcher.  The report says there might be a stumbling block as Spurs will want around £3 million for him - quite a rise on the £1.7 million they paid in the first place.

  In the first move to break European football apart, the top clubs in Scotland have been given the go-ahead to play in a league with clubs from Holland, Portugal, Sweden, Denmark and Norway.  The league could be the stepping stone to a major European league and would decimate home leagues by taking the top teams out and leaving the rest to scrabble around for what TV money is left.
  Former Spurs reserve midfielder, David Lee grabbed a very good goal for Southend on his debut for the Essex club.

11.8.2000

  David Pleat has begged Sol Campbell to stay at the club.  The club are willing to offer him a "breathtaking" contract if he will sit down to talks, but he and his agent are reported as saying that they want to wait until the end of the season.  This had lead George Graham to speculate that Sol wants to go along the Bosman route and said that the questioning of his and the club's ambition was annoying.  I didn't come here to wallow in mid-table, the manager said, I came to win things.

  GG and Sergei Rebrov seem to share a common belief in collective responsibility.  GG praised the Ukrainian and said he works very hard and brings out the best in others, while Rebrov said he does not care how many goals he scores as long as the team wins.

  Spurs have hit out at the reports that Charlton Athletic have made a £2.5 million bid for Chris Armstrong.  David Pleat has again blamed "agent-speak" for these stories.

  GG seems to have decided who will start between the sticks next Saturday against Ipswich Town and all will be revealed in tomorrow's friendly match against Vitesse Arnhem.

  Steffen Freund believes that if Sergei Rebrov has a successful season, it could kick Spurs into the big time.  He has been helping the Ukrainian settle into this country, admitting it took him a  year and a half to do so.  He said if Rebrov is given time to fit into the Premiership, he will help Spurs progress.

  GG has said that he is pleased to be playing a quality side the week before the season starts in tomorrow's friendly in Holland.  Vitesse Arnhem finished fourth in the Dutch League and although their former player, Willem Korsten is expected to be unavailable for the match, George sees it as a "tricky game".
  Planet Football say that Tottenham are stepping up their interest in Boudewijn Zenden, the Barcelona winger.

10.8.2000

  George Graham has allegedly been given the go ahead to spend £7 million more to bring in the two players he has penciled in for his Tottenham side.  He is unlikely to have them in the line-up before the start of the season, but he knows the areas he wants to fill and will await the players becoming available.  Suppose we can wave goodbye to Zenden then ??
  Allan Nielsen has said that his new boss at Watford, graham Taylor is a better listener and easier to talk to than George Graham.  Fellow ex-Spur Espen Baardsen, who joined him in a move to Vicarage Road, said he had hardly spoken to the manager for a long while.  Both said that the difference between their old and new manager is that Taylor smiled !!

  Mauricio Taricco has said that "if" the rumours of a move to Ipswich Town become fact, then he will have to consider his position.  At the moment he is happy at Tottenham and is ready to fight for his place with new signing Ben Thatcher.  DP is said to have had a conversation with George Burley about Taricco two or three weeks ago, but it was made clear that Spurs were happy with the Argentinian defender.

  Barry Fry has said that when Tottenham grabbed Matthew Etherington and Simon Davies, they got two real bargains.  Their former manager believes they will progress because they are both keen to learn and have really come on since their move to White Hart Lane.

  Following the Peterborough United game, Steffen Iversen got a rude awakening.  Click here to go to Football 365 for the full story.

  Mystery Spanish striker Diego Tristan has signed for Deportivo La Coruna for a club record £9 million from Real Mallorca.  He was linked with a move to Britain with Spurs one of the main rumoured destinations.

  Arsene Wenger tried his amateur psychology again.  He really is a sad man isn't he ??

9.8.2000

  At last, Tottenham are set to have a meeting with Sol Campbell's agent in the next two weeks about the Spurs captain's contract extension.  Spurs are believed to be offering a £1 million lump sum signing-on fee and wages above £25,000 a week which will bust the pay structure.  Watch this space.
  Steffen Iversen is looking forward to the lightening of the striking load with four fit forwards at Tottenham this season.  He also said that he was in no hurry to extend his contract and it was "something for the future".

  Rumours are printed in today's papers that Mauricio Taricco might be moving back to Ipswich Town following Tottenham's signing of Ben Thatcher.  I would not think this is likely for a number of reasons.  He would fetch at least as much (if not more than we paid for him), Spurs want to build a bigger squad and he is versatile enough to cover a number of positions.  A fee of £3 million (or £1 million, depending on which website you read) is being quoted and the Suffolk club are believed to be close to taking two top players to Portman Road.  Manager George Burley said they are both quality players and there are strong indications that one of them he is referring to is Ruel Fox.  Don't watch that space.  

  The rumours of Tottenham's interest in Benito Carbone ended today when he signed for Bradford City.

  Matthew Etherington, who missed last night's friendly against his old club Peterborough United, will miss the first month of the season with his ankle injury, sustained in the reserve friendly at Dulwich Hamlet last Saturday.

  Spurs Reserves lost 1-2 at Kingstonian in David Leworthy's testimonial match.  Leworthy scored himself to help the home side to a 2-0 lead before John Piercy got a goal back for Tottenham.  IN the match, Chris Armstrong took a kick on the leg and had to limp off.

  West Bromwich Albion have ended their interest in Ruel Fox as they cannot talk to him about a move until he has resolved his claim with Tottenham about paying off his contract.

  David Lee, who has signed a one year deal at Southend United, has already been the subject of interest from former Spurs and Southend winger, Peter Taylor.  The Leicester City boss will maintain an overview of the Spurs midfielder's progress this season and may make a bargain buy should he impress at Roots Hall. 

  Another former Spurs winger, Garry Brady, has returned to Newcastle United after a trial at Barnsley proved fruitless.  SoccerUpdate report he was only there one day !!

8.8.2000

  Spurs beat Peterborough United in a friendly match tonight at London Road, with goals by Sergei Rebrov and Tim Sherwood giving Spurs a 2-1 victory.  For a match report click here.  For a look at some photos and videos of the goals click here.
Spurs Team :  Tottenham: Walker, Carr, Perry (Young 76), Campbell, Thatcher (Taricco 60), Anderton, Sherwood (Davies 60), Freund, Clemence, Rebrov (Armstrong 60), Ferdinand (Iversen 45).  Unused Subs : Doherty, Sullivan
  Willem Korsten will be out for a month after having an operation to remove some floating bone from his hip.  The Dutchman has said it wasn't as bad as he had thought and hopes he will be OK to play again after the surgery, but he has been told to do nothing for three or four weeks.  No change there then !!
  Jari Litmanen of Barcelona has been the subject of an enquiry by Spurs according to his agent.  While DP dismisses it as agent talk, his agent has been talking and said Spurs had asked if the Finnish striker was available.  Told by Barca that he was, they then asked to discuss a fee.  Ajax and Everton are also interested in taking the forward on, should he be let go.
  Previous reports earlier this year of Tottenham's interest in 19 year old Nigerian Julius Aghahowa have resurfaced, with Arsenal, Coventry City, Middlesbrough and Manchester City being the clubs involved.

7.8.2000

  Steffen Iversen has said that Spurs supporters should forget David Ginola and get behind the team, instead of calling his name.  Iversen added that he felt the fittest he had been in two years and would expect the style of the team's play to change now that Ginola had departed.

  Matthew Etherington looks like he will miss a return to his old ground on Tuesday, when Spurs visit London Road to play Peterborough United in a pre-season friendly.  Matty took a heavy tackle on his ankle during the match at Dulwich Hamlet on Saturday and is doubtful for the match against the Posh.  Willem Korsten could also miss out after being diagnosed as having a hip injury.

  BFJ Hartson has slammed Spurs doctors for ruining his dream move to Tottenham last season.  He said they didn't have the guts to take him on after he had undergone knee surgery, which he has had no reaction to in pre-season training for First Division Wimbledon.  The Big Welsh player said that it would be Tottenham's loss that he was not at White Hart Lane now.  Oh, yeah John.  We really wish that Rebrov had never signed for Tottenham and we were all looking forward to a new season with you leading the line.  NOT !!

  Rumours are reported on Planet Football that Spurs are among many clubs a watching the outcome of a meeting between Jari Litmanen and Barcelona to see if he has a future at the club.  Signed on a Bosman, he was injured for most of last season and the club are thinking of cutting their losses by selling him on.  Everton, Ajax and Olympiakos are all keen to offer him a new start.

6.8.2000

  Following his first goal in a Spurs shirt this summer, Les Ferdinand has stated that he will be happy to be part of the striker rotation at Tottenham.  He said that with Steffen Iversen, Chris Armstrong and Sergei Rebrov all battling for two places, he was glad to be fit and in with a chance of playing first team football again.

  Meanwhile, GG said that he hoped to bolster the squad still further, although it was unlikely that any new players would join before the season's start.  He said that during the summer they looked at a lot more players than the three they signed and hoped that signings would come in due course.  Graham said that he was looking for progression this season with a higher finish and play good attacking football.

  Benito Carbone has sent out a message to Spurs that he is the player to fill the boots of David Ginola, who has moved in the other direction.  His people contacted David Pleat, who signed him for Sheffield Wednesday and asked if Tottenham would take him on.  Villa failed to meet his £53,000 a week wage demands.  Manchester City, Glasgow Rangers, Monaco, Italian club Reggina and Bradford City are interested too and Joe Royle is believed to be willing to stump up whatever it takes for Carbone.  Pleat is reported to have said that Beni would love the way football is played at Tottenham and hopes to push the deal through to beat the opposition.  You can imagine GG welcoming him with open arms can't you ??

  Apparently, the Sunday People report that Steffen Iversen is holding out for £26,000 a week (up from Spurs' £20,000 offer) and if his demands are not met, Bayern Munich are waiting to do a deal at £10 million.

  Manchester United are expected to make a paltry £10 million bid for Sol Campbell or tell Spurs they will have him for nothing in the summer.  They might be forced into making a late bid in December in time to register him for the latter stages of the Champion's league, but no doubt that will be at an even smaller amount.  The story comes from the Man U loving Sunday Mirror, so we will wait until Sol finally leaves White Hart Lane before we believe anything that is written in the papers.

  Sergei Rebrov's love of amateur radio will hopefully help him settle into life in England.  He visited the Radio Society of Great Britain at Potters Bar and said that once he has his new home (he is living in a hotel at the moment), he will get a licence and a radio station set up.   He said that he is loving London (as is his wife for shopping) and is looking to be involved in radio competitions when he is properly equipped.

  The News of the World have revealed that Charlton Athletic are keen to sign Chris Armstrong for £2.5 million.  Portsmouth are also thought to be watching the situation with interest.  DP denied that the story was anything more than "agent speak" and that no player would leave unless it was in the club's best interests.
  Ian Walker could sensationally follow in the footsteps of Pat Jennings and move to Arsenal should be be ousted from the goalkeeper's position at Tottenham.  SoccerUpdate report that Arsenal could make a surprise swoop for Walker if he is so dissatisfied with Neil Sullivan replacing him that he decides to leave !!  And he thinks he is disliked at Tottenham at the moment ??
  Ipswich Town are thought to be looking at signing Leyton Orient's Matthew Lockwood.  The left back is rated at £500,000 and Spurs are believed to be keen on the player who is reckoned to be one of the hottest properties in Division Three.

5.8.2000

  Spurs played QPR this afternoon in former Spurs defender Danny Maddix's testimonial match at Loftus Road.  Spurs won 2-0 with goals from Les Ferdinand and Tim Sherwood.  Willem Korsten missed the match because of a hip problem.
Spurs : Spurs: Sullivan, Carr, Taricco (Thatcher 45), Campbell, Vega (Perry 45), Leonhardsen (Davies 45), Sherwood (Young 77), Clemence, Anderton, Ferdinand (Rebrov 45), Iversen (Armstrong 77).
For a match report click here.

  Despite staying on the bench for the above friendly, GG has said that Ian Walker is not the number two keeper at Tottenham.  He said that Walks played most of the games on tour and at Birmingham, so he should not be unduly worried that Sullivan was having a run now.  The manager added he will make his decision when it needs it, that is the first day of the season.
  Spurs target Boudewijn Zenden has been retained at Barcelona and will not be leaving after all.  He was not on the list of six players the new manager Lorenzo Serra Ferrer wants to shed from the squad.
  Should Steffen Iversen not be able to agree a contract extension with Spurs various clubs are rumoured to be waiting in the wings to snap him up.  Among these are Leeds United, Fiorentina and PSV Eindhoven.

  Shock Horror reports in today's newspapers that Tottenham have issued tickets with David Ginola on them !!  How terribly terribly embarrassing !!

  A Spurs XI beat Dulwich Hamlet this afternoon by 3-1, with goals from John Piercy and Yannick Kamanan.  The side did not feature Dutchman Willem Korsten as he was unavailable through injury.

4.8.2000

  Sol Campbell has urged Tottenham to start acting like a big club and to stop cutting corners.  He said that they sometimes would have to take a chance on players to bring success to the club and show others that Tottenham mean business.  The Spurs captain said that people at the Spurs have to wake up to the fact that there is a big club there and be clever with the money they have after the recent sales.  Sol thought that Rebrov was a very good buy, with the potential to take Spurs into Europe.

  Darren Anderton has said that Tottenham will get over the sale of David Ginola and have a manager who knows what he wants.  The England man, who some have said did not get on with Ginola, went on to cryptically (although not that vaguely) remark that the best 11 individuals do not make the best team !!

  Steffen Iversen has added to the "not too sorry to see David Ginola go" brigade by saying the club has some good young players and there is a togetherness in the squad as the approach the new season.  Iversen says that the loss of Ginola is not as bad as people might think and considers Spurs will do well without him. 

  Oyvind Leonhardsen has revealed that he may need to undergo surgery to resolve his long-standing heel injury.  A specialist will look at the injury site in the next few days and make a decision as to whether an operation is required.

  A Spurs XI will be playing Dulwich Hamlet tomorrow at the non-league club's Champion Hill ground at 3.p.m.  John Piercy is set to link up with ex-Luton Town striker/defender Gary Doherty.  The pair have scored five goals in three games together.  Dave McEwen will return to his old stamping ground in this match which was part of the deal.  The Dutchman Willem Korsten has been omitted from the squad due to injury.
Iranian midfielder Karim Bagheri, who mysteriously alluded to a move to a London club, has played for Charlton Athletic in a pre-season testimonial and the South London club are considering his purchase.  Spurs were said to be one of the interested parties involved.

3.8.2000

  Sol Campbell has assured Spurs fans that he will be staying at White Hart Lane for the foreseeable future, despite not having contract talks with the club.  It is music to the ears to hear him say "I want to play for Tottenham. I've been here a long time and my heart is here. It's a massive club, with a great tradition and fantastic supporters, and I want to win things with them. That would mean so much to me."  He said that he was hopeful that the club was going in the right direction by signing Rebrov and that Ginola was gone and the club was in good shape.  He said if there was a player out there who could add to the squad, then the club should go after him, but added that it need not be a big money signing, it could be a bargain buy.
  If you are a season ticket holder and you are unhappy about David Ginola leaving, the club would not wish to have misled anyone, so they are offering a full refund on the season ticket if it is returned to the ticket office by August 15.
  Allan Nielsen joined Watford today for £2.25 million and was part of a double deal that took Espen Baardsen to Vicarage Road for £1.25 million.
  Also on the way out of the Lane could be Ruel Fox, who West Bromwich Albion have agreed a fee for.  Talks will continue later this week.

  Ian Walker will reconsider his position at Tottenham (does that mean he will play in midfield ?), if he is not playing against Ipswich Town on the first day of the season.  He says that nobody knows what will happen, but GG can expect him to be unhappy if he is on the bench come August 19th.

  Steffen Iversen's agent said Tottenham are offering 20% below what he expects his client to receive in his new contract extension.  Talks will continue in two weeks, but if Spurs do not close the gap, then the deal could be off.  
  Oyvind Leonhardsen has said he cannot live up to playing on the left wing like David Ginola.  He has urged the fans to forget Ginola and support those who are currently in the white shirts of Spurs.
Spurs have been linked with a move for Watford's promising young £2 million rated forward Tommy Smith, but David Pleat has denied such a move.

Ledley King is back in light training after having a plaster cast removed from his broken foot.  He hopes that he will be able to step up the training and get back playing soon.

  Darren Anderton is hoping for a recall to the England squad for the World Cup game against Germany.

  Mysterious Spanish striker Diego Tristan, has shunned a move to Spurs, as well as Glasgow Rangers and Galatasaray and might now stay with Real Mallorca.
  Willem Korsten will be missing from the Tottenham squad that travels to Queens Park Rangers this Saturday through injury.

2.8.2000

  Spurs drew 0-0 at Fulham tonight in Simon Morgan's Testimonial match. Both keepers were in action and Fulham hit the bar, before Sherwood was substituted on the advice of the referee, following one hefty tackle on Goldbaek. 
Team :  Sullivan, Carr, Thatcher (Taricco 75), Perry, Campbell, Sherwood (Etherington 55), Anderton, Clemence, Leonhardsen (Armstrong 75), Rebrov, Ferdinand (Iversen 45).  For a match report click here.
  The chances of Boudewijn Zenden coming to Tottenham appear to be slim.  Lazio offered him £42,000 a week before talks broke down and he is already earning £33,000 at Barcelona.  Signing him would involve a considerable hike in the wages paid at the club, with Darren Anderton the top earner at £24,000 a week now that David Ginola has left.

  Steffen Iversen is looking forward to the start of the season and thinks that despite the sale of David Ginola, Spurs could finish in the top six, should they avoid lots of injuries.

  It was revealed today that DJ Korsten's hip op will keep him out until Christmas.

  Despite denials from D. Pleat, the transfers of Espen Baardsen and Allan Nielsen appear to have been completed as both players revealed on their own websites.

Ben Thatcher has revealed that the pre-season with Spurs has been much harder than those previously spent at Wimbledon.  He said that he is getting used to it now and the other players have helped him.  Thatcher thought the tour went well, but coming up against Birmingham City who are nearer match hardened fitness was a "back to earth" welcome to English football.

  Les Ferdinand has said it is "disappointing" that David Ginola has been sold.

1.8.2000

  It appears that Tottenham and Sol Campbell have not set a date for contract talks.  The Spurs captain said he would talk to the club in the summer, after Euro 2000, but both Pleat and Sol's agent have confirmed that there are no negotiations planned to discuss an extension on his contract which expires in July 2001.  Spurs fans are concerned that after losing David Ginola, the young man who has come through the ranks at White Hart Lane, might leave the club he loves, with Tottenham losing out big time as he will go for free.  Pleat said that there are no "direct talks" going on at this time, but the club hoped to sit down with him shortly.

  Tottenham are denying that Allan Nielsen and Espen Baardsen are heading off to join Watford, saying that one or two details have still to be sorted out.  However, Watford hope that the deals can be completed within the next couple of days.

  Boudewijn Zenden looks certain to join Lazio after their transfer deal with Barcelona has been resurrected.

  Willem Korsten (you remember him, don't you) needs surgery on a hip operation and will miss the start of the season.  The man who has BUPA as his personal sponsor said he was "devastated".