Jol on boos after Subbing Defoe

Courtesy of SkySports-

Martin Jol has brushed off the boos which reverberated around White Hart Lane
during Tottenham's 2-0 Carling Cup win over Middlesbrough.
The decision to
substitute Jermain Defoe on 69 minutes was greeted by jeers by the home fans,
only for his replacement Robbie Keane to set up Gareth Bale for the opening goal
three minutes later.
Tom Huddlestone then added a second and Spurs boss Jol
is confident he was not the target of the boo-boys.
"I don't think it's
about booing me because a minute later they are singing my name," said Jol.
Brave decisions
"I'm not someone to fear things. They say in Holland
'have no fear, Jolly is here'.
"You can leave it and wait or make a
decision. I've had around 150 games, maybe 170, and they normally come off.
Maybe a couple of them didn't.
"I make brave decisions all the time because
I want to win. Everyone will be involved, that's what I tell them."
Jol,
whose position has been under intense scrutiny this season, again stressed his
belief that he merits the opportunity to continue in the role.
The Dutchman
added: "I am in a very good position here and that is what I deserve.
"I
gave them a bit of success over the last couple of years. No-one could have done
better."

Linked here: http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11675_2758473,00.html

ManU dropped from Carling Cup by Coventry City

Courtesy of SkySports-

Manchester United's Gerard Pique has described the loss against Coventry City as
a 'horrible feeling'.
The Red Devils were dumped out of the Carling Cup by
the Championship side on Wednesday night, after suffering a 2-0 home defeat.
Sir Alex Ferguson made 11 changes to his side, and was expecting his
up-and-coming stars to see off The Sky Blues' challenge.
However, goals
either side of half-time from Michael Mifsud secured a memorable success for
Iain Dowie's men.
Pique spoke of his disappointment, and rued his side's
costly mistakes.
"Looking up at the scoreboard at the final whistle and
seeing 2-0 was a horrible feeling, especially when you're up against a
Championship side at Old Trafford," he told the club's official website.
Very disappointed
"I thought we started the game well and had some good
possession. But their first goal brought them alive.
"After the break we
didn't feel good and when they scored the second it was a horrible feeling.
"We know we did a lot of things wrong, but you can always learn from these
situations and hopefully we will grow as players.
"Some people will think
we've missed our chance. We're all very disappointed.
"We gave everything we
could on the pitch, but things just didn't go our way."

Linked here: http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11667_2758973,00.html

My thoughts: Hopefully Liverpool, Chelsea, and Arsenal will drop out next. COYS!

Chelski charged by FA for Abuse towards Ref

Courtesy of SkySports-

The Football Association has charged Chelsea with failing to control their
players during their match against Manchester United on 23rd September.
Charges have been issued against Chelsea and their assistant coach Steve
Clarke following incidents which occurred during the Old Trafford clash.
The
charge with regards the behaviour of Chelsea's players relates to the manner in
which they responded to referee Mike Dean, following the first-half sending-off
of John Obi Mikel.
Captain John Terry was seen to try and snatch the red
card from Dean's hand, in an incident that has landed the England captain in hot
water with the FA.
Clarke has been charged with using abusive and/or
insulting words towards the match officials at the game's conclusion.
The FA
has already rejected Chelsea's appeal against Mikel's red card, as they upheld
Dean's decision, meaning the Nigerian is serving a three-match suspension.
Chelsea and Clarke have until 12th October to respond to the charges.

Linked here: http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11095_2759050,00.html

My thoughts: I love the fact that Chelski is finally getting called out by the FA for whining over every call now that Jose Mourinho has left. It probably shouldn't have been a straight red but the Chelski players abuse refs over every call that goes against them. Every friggin' foul. Grow up and play the game.

Match Report: CC THFC 2 - 'Boro 0

Courtesy of Official Site-

Gareth Bale and Tom Huddlestone scored the second half goals that secured a
2-0 victory over Middlesbrough in the third round of the Carling Cup at the Lane
on Wednesday night.
It was domination without reward in the first half and
the frustration continued into the second period until Bale broke the deadlock
with a speedy break and slick finish. A perhaps rare Huddlestone header
settled the encounter a few minutes later. There was an early flurry of acton as
a result of a Chris Riggott foul on Jermain Defoe around 20 yards out. Bale
struck the free-kick into the wall, but the full-back seized upon the rebound
and fizzed just wide via a slight deflection. From the corner Michael Dawson was
causing mayhem but lines were eventually cleared. At the other end Fabio
Rochemback thumped in an effort that bounced just in front of Paul Robinson and
the England No.1's reactions proved to be in fine working order. On eight
minutes Defoe cleverly put Jermaine Jenas in the clear but, after speeding onto
the invitation, the midfielder suffered a miscue in front of goal and the chance
went begging. Teemu Tainio then extended a similar invitation to Defoe after a
barnstorming run from midfield and this time it was the quickly advanced Brad
Jones in the Boro goal denying an opener with a brave block. A deep free-kick
from Tom Huddlestone was then flicked just wide of the upright by the head of
Dawson. A thrilling run from Bale that left his marker trailing in his wake
enlivened proceedings again in the 19th minute, only for his charge to be
knocked off course just as he was entering shooting mode. The flow and tempo of
of the encounter was being completely dominated by the team in all white and the
lead was nearly taken again when a Bale free-kick landed between Dawson and
Jones, with the goalkeeper doing just enough on this occasion. Tainio really
should have scored just before the half hour mark when a perfectly measured
cross from Defoe stood up awaiting execution, but was headed rather tamely into
the hands of Jones. That miss aside, Tainio was probably one of the most
effective players on the pitch in the first half, demonstrating his usual snap
in the tackle along with some imaginative distribution. Another effort on goal
from the Finn, that was charged down, led to the ball falling kindly for Defoe
to nod over Jones in front of goal and it was only the cross bar that prevented
him from adding to the two he opened his account with against Famagusta last
week. It could have gone against us at the other end when Riggott took advantage
of some confusion following a free-kick just before half-time, with the central
defender thankfully hooking over the bar. How the score remained level at the
break was something of a mystery. The start of the second was lively without
quite the rate of chances we witnessed in the first. A Bale free-kick caused
some alarm when Jones spilt it and Defoe nearly played predator then there
really should have been a penalty on the hour when David Wheater chopped down
Aaron Lennon inside the area. Referee Mr Stroud saw differently. A Pascal
Chimbonda cross next found Defoe at the back post and the little hitman thrust
his head forward and connected with the ball and forced a flying and very good
save out of Jones. Martin made a double change after 69 minutes, with Defoe and
Jenas making way for Robbie Keane and Didier Zokora The change worked a treat
and on 71 minutes superb vision from Keane set Bale scampering away down the
left channel, the 18-year-old proceeding to round Jones and slot home from a
tight angle for his third goal in our colours. Three minutes later it was two
when Lennon left Rochemback in his wake chasing down Paul Robinson's
pinpoint clearance before weighting a superb cross that was met and headed
beyond Jones by Tom Huddlestone. It was essentially job done, mission
accomplished from that point and we can now look forward to the draw for round
four on Saturday.

Linked here: http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news/articles/matchreport260907.html

Latest News: UEFA cup

Courtesy of Official Site-

This is an important announcement for all fans travelling to Cyprus for our
UEFACup first round, second leg match against Anorthosis Famagusta.
At
Famagusta’s request, the kick-off time has been changed from 9pm local time (7pm
UK) to 5.45pm local time (3.45pm UK). We are aware that some supporters have
arranged to travel to this match with Cyprus Airways and that their plane is
scheduled to land in Cyprus at 3.55pm local time on Thursday afternoon. Given
the kick-off change, a special bus will now be made available to take supporters
from the airport straight to the stadium. The journey time is approximately
20-25 minutes. Bags can be left on this bus for the duration of the match and
the bus will then take fans to their hotel after the match. This service will be
free of charge. All supporters known to be travelling on the Cyprus Airways
flight will be contacted directly tomorrow (September 27) and Friday (September
28) by the Ticket Office. Any supporters yet to confirm their travel
arrangements to the Ticket Office should do so at the earliest opportunity.
Accomodation details should be emailed to our Ticket Office at this address –
fans can do this by mailing ticketoffice@tottenhamhotspur.com or replying to the
email they will receive. For the information of fans not travelling, this match
will be televised by Channel 5

.

Linked here: http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news/articles/importantnoticeforfanstravellingtoanorthosisfamagusta.html

Jol on CC 2-0 Win over 'Boro

Courtesy of Official Site-

Martin Jol wore a contented smile after we progressed to the fourth round of the
Carling Cup with a 2-0 win against Middlesbrough on Wednesday night.
The
manager's substitutions played a key role in the victory in front of another
30,000-plus crowd at the Lane.
On top throughout, we simply couldn't find a
goal that our play deserved with Brad Jones in fine form in the Boro goal and
when he was beaten, Jermain Defoe saw his header come back off the
crossbar.
With the visitors proving a tough nut to crack, Martin threw
the dice after 69 minutes, throwing on Robbie Keane and Didier Zokora for Defoe
and Jermaine Jenas.
It took a little over three minutes for the change to pay
dividends as Keane lost marker George Boateng on the left
touchline before releasing the perfect pass with the outside of his foot
into the path of the onrushing Gareth Bale. The Welsh starlet raced through,
skipped past Jones and slid the ball home.
Two minutes later and it was game
over as Paul Robinson gathered a cross and spotted Aaron Lennon on the run,
drilling an 80-yard clearance into his path. Lennon turned Fabio Rochemback
inside out before chipping the ball in for Toim Huddlestone to head
home.
Martin reflected: "I was very happy, especially with the first half,
but on the other hand you have to score goals and that was the
problem.
"Gareth Bale scored a very good goal. He played left-back but got
forward, attacked the space for the goal and it was terrific to see. That was
his third goal for the club.
"The second goal came soon after and then you
feel relieved - we needed the win and we wanted to go through to the next
round."
Martin was naturally asked about his substitutions as the Lane
faithful certainly made their feelings known on taking off Defoe.
"You can
either leave it as it is and wait or make a decision," he responded.
"I was
happy with the team but in the second half I didn't feel we were creating as
much and that's when you have to change it."
Asked if he considered it a
'brave' decision, Martin added: "It's not a brave decision, just a decision you
have to make. You make them all the time. I want to win, I just think of the
team and everyone is equal to me. They are all important and that's what I tell
them.
"Robbie came on, had an impact and all I concentrate on is the
result.
"Didier Zokora also came on and did well, Teemu Tainio has played the
last two games and did well and that's the development of the team. I feel we
are getting there."

Linked here: http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news/articles/happyjol260907.html

Daws talking about the poor start so far this season

Courtesy of Official Site-

Michael Dawson admits it hurts being at the wrong end of the table - and insists
it's down to the lads to put matters right.
Daws led a sterling defensive
display in the face of Bolton’s aerial bombardment in the 1-1 draw at the Reebok
Stadium on Sunday but left disappointed after that work was undone by one of the
many set-pieces that came flying into or box. The draw left us in the bottom
three. “You look at our performances and to be in the bottom three, you would
think we would have been terrible, but that’s not been the case,” reflected
Michael at Spurs Lodge as he prepared for tonight's (Wednesday September 25,
8pm) Carling Cup tie against Middlesbrough.“The odd game hasn’t been great but
we are in the bottom three for a reason. “We know where we want to be, we know
what we wanted to achieve at the start of the season and we are at the wrong end
of the table. It’s early on but it’s still disappointing and hard to take. We’re
the only ones who can get us out of it.” Ivan Campo rose to head home that
free-kick to level Robbie Keane’s opener in the first half. We had the better of
the second half but Jussi Jaaskelainen saved from Teemu Tainio and Keane and
Steed Malbranque volleyed just over. “You know what to expect at Bolton, a big
physical team and I thought overall we played well,” continued Michael. “It was
disappointing not to be able to hold onto the lead for long after going 1-0 up.
That was most frustrating part of the game, going 1-0 up and then conceding so
quickly afterwards. “We work on set-pieces, we talk about them in meetings and
we know what a crucial part of football they are in terms of winning and losing
games. “To concede hurts from personal point of view and team point of view. If
you are cut open by a bit of quality you hold your hands up, there is nothing
you can do, but it’s disappointing to concede from set-pieces.” It looks like
one familiar face will miss out on a return to the Lane as Mido is one of three
strikers on Middlesbrough's injury list.

However, Michael
insisted: “This game was never about about Mido or anyone else, this is
about Tottenham and trying to get into the next round.”

Linked here: http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news/articles/dawsithurts260907.html

David Hytner, The Guardian

Courtesy of David Hytner, The Guardian, Wed 26 Sep

Martin Jol has been called many things in private by various Tottenham directors
during what has been a spiky managerial tenure. Yet the Dutchman cannot ever
have envisaged the label that clings to him at present and undermines him most
gravely - that which says "caretaker".As Jol labours on through protracted
crisis, the proverbial gun to his head, the impression given is that he has
become a new type of caretaker manager. Nobody, at this moment, would bet on him
being in charge at Tottenham next season, but with no alternative readily
available to the chairman, Daniel Levy, he remains.If he can stabilise results
he may make Christmas; dramatic improvement, which he effected last season after
a similarly bad start, and he could last until the spring. On the other hand,
further spirals of decline might force Levy to fire the bullet and, at worst,
look for a more conventional caretaker until the end of the season.Jol has been
labelled a "dead man" in managerial terms. That he continues to walk is becoming
more and more grisly.Tottenham have repeatedly tried to clean up the unseemly
mess that are Jol's job prospects at the club. Official statements have churned
out, and yesterday brought the latest.Levy wanted to make supporters aware that
he and his fellow directors had not held a board meeting of any sort on Monday
to consider Jol's immediate future or lack thereof. He also strenuously denied
that a severance package had been agreed for Jol's departure. The Dutchman would
be entitled to a pay-off if his contract, which runs until the end of next
season, were to be terminated but beyond the small print of his deal there was
nothing else to discuss.Yet in these dark and paranoid times at White Hart Lane,
where each utterance from Levy, Jol or anyone in authority is scrutinised for
covert meaning, central figures and onlookers alike have grown dizzy and
frustrated.The club have only themselves to blame, having been rumbled in the
middle of last month holding a clandestine meeting with Juande Ramos, the
Sevilla coach, with a view to installing him as Jol's successor.If the episode
was deeply embarrassing, then the statements that followed immediately were even
more so. In only the third one, did Levy get around to offering Jol his full
support. The impression then was that Jol was on borrowed time and nothing has
changed since.The secret is out of the bag. Levy and his directors felt that Jol
was not the man to outmanoeuvre the managers at the big four clubs, against whom
he has an uninspiring record, and lead the team to a Champions League finish,
which they viewed as the logical progression after consecutive fifth-placed
Premier League finishes. Try as they might, they have been unable to magic it
back under wraps.The club believe themselves to be under siege from a hostile
media, their only recourse being to fight back via official statements. There is
a certain irony in that few journalists, print or broadcast, actually want to
see Jol depart. But the situation has become so complicated, so fraught, that
the pressure is undermining Jol and the team. They step unto the breach once
more this evening, against Middlesbrough in the Carling Cup at White Hart
Lane.Levy declared that it was his duty to explore managerial alternatives if
the incumbent was failing to deliver while there has also been the feeling at
boardroom level that Jol has been no angel, having allowed his name to be linked
with several top jobs - most recently, Holland, Newcastle United and Manchester
City. Now, with the team in the bottom three, Levy really does have to make
contingencies but his every move is viewed as another twist of the knife into
Jol's back. Levy is damned if he does; likewise, if he doesn't.Jol is icily
pragmatic about his job being touted. He knows that everything goes on and
around in football. How Tottenham wish, however, that they had not been caught
under those exploding flashbulbs with Ramos.

No link.

Article on 'Boro CC Match

Courtesy of Teamtalk-

Beleaguered Tottenham boss Martin Jol has hinted at recalling Jermain Defoe to
his squad for the Carling Cup clash against Middlesbrough.Defoe's place in the
pecking order has contributed to a season characterised by internal problems at
White Hart Lane, with serious concerns over Jol's long-term future after
appearing to be undermined by his board.The Dutchman insists he is not going to
quit - describing those suggestions as "a load of rubbish" - but his position
has looked in limbo as Spurs continue to be linked with other managers,
including Juande Ramos last month and Jose Mourinho last week.The Carling Cup
third round clash against Boro offers a chance to recall Defoe, who has not made
the matchday squad for the last two league games, as well as Gareth Bale."We've
got a few options when it comes to the starting line-up, Aaron Lennon is fine
and fit for selection, along with Jermain Defoe and Gareth Bale," Jol said."We
will make some changes, but we will always field a strong team."With Spurs
chairman Daniel Levy determined to reach the Champions League, Jol's failure to
keep Defoe happy has been one of the criticisms he has faced.Jol argues that
Defoe started more league games than Robbie Keane last season but he clearly
favours Keane and Dimitar Berbatov for important games, and Darren Bent has
added to the competition.Spurs played 21 cup games last season and Jol was
looking at following the "big four" by making sweeping changes for Carling Cup
games to help league form this time around, yet any victory will be welcomed as
Spurs have only beaten Derby and Anorthosis Famagusta so far in the current
campaign and are in the bottom three of the Premier League."It was not the
easiest of draws for us, but we are at home and that is what you want," he said.
"For us it is important, we want to get into the next round with a win at the
Lane in front of our supporters."An injury to Mido means Jol is unlikely to be
reunited with the striker he persuaded to stay in January before allowing him to
go before the transfer window closed in August.Mido, whose parting shot at Spurs
was to claim it was a club rife with "politics", is joined on the Boro sidelines
by Julio Arca but Jol expects a stern test."Middlesbrough have got a good team
and have a tremendous track record in developing young players, but they also
have considerable experience in the side," he said."If you look at Stewart
Downing on the left, he will chip in with 10 or more assists, while Jonathan
Woodgate is a great leader at the back, with George Boateng providing the
experience in the middle."We have got home advantage, but that doesn't mean
anything if you don't play well and create chances. We have conceded seven or
eight easy goals this year and if we can cut that sort of thing out we will do
well."

No link.

Reason for THFC Press Release

Source: Teamtalk

Martin Jol has reportedly agreed a £4million compensation package with
Tottenham despite denying reports he is on his way out of the club.Over the
weekend there were claims that chairman Daniel Levy made five separate attempts
to lure Jose Mourinho to White Hart Lane last week, with one newspaper even
claiming Jol was ready to quit his post. But the Dutchman said: "Everybody is
committed to the cause of getting higher up the league and making a success of
the season. "This is dominating my thoughts at the moment and so you can imagine
how surprised I was to hear that one newspaper was suggesting that I was on the
verge of quitting my job. What a load of rubbish." However, Tuesday's Daily
Mirror claims Jol has struck a deal with the club and will go as soon as they
can find a suitable replacement

Media Speculation PR official release by THFC

Courtesy of Official Site-

Normally we only have to remind fans to ignore speculation during transfers windows, and we do that in the best interests of our playing staff and our supporters. Given the level of speculation about Martin and his position at the Club we feel it is necessary to do the same thing now.
Much of the reporting that has been carried since mid-August has been speculative and unfounded and accurately provided information has been disregarded. Chairman, Daniel Levy stated, “There has been no board meeting, let alone any emergency board meeting, and reports that we have agreed a compensation package with Martin are wholly inaccurate - we have not even discussed the subject and there is no reason to do so. We will not allow ourselves to be side-tracked or undermined by external agendas or media hype. Our focus is on winning games. “For the record Damien was not in Barcelona this weekend, he was watching Southampton v Barnsley!”

Linked here: http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news/articles/mediaspeculation250907.html

Team News 'Boro Carling Cup Test

Courtesy of Official Site-

Younes Kaboul is back in the frame for Wednesday night's Carling Cup third
round tie against Middlesbrough at the Lane.The French Under-21 skipper missed
Sunday’s 1-1 draw at Bolton with a slight knee injury but comes back into the
reckoning after training this week.Paul Stalteri is also fit after a heel
problem sustained in international duty but Anthony Gardner (ankle) and Ledley
King (knee) remain out.Martin Jol reported this afternoon: “Younes Kaboul is
back in the squad. We had to pull him out just before the Bolton game but we
feel he’s 100 per cent fit again now.“Anthony Gardner is still out but he’s
doing well and hopefully he’ll come back next week. Paul Stalteri is back and
I’ll rest Benoit Assou-Ekotto, he well well to play two games in three days
after his injury and this gives an opportunity to other players.”

Linked here: http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news/articles/teamnews250907.html

Jol on Bolton

Courtesy of Official Site-

Martin Jol was pleased with how we coped with Bolton's direct style in Sunday's
1-1 draw at the Reebok Stadium.It certainly looked the the usual Bolton we were
up against - the side that had won the last five league meetings at the Reebok -
as long balls rained down on the heads of Michael Dawson and the rest of the
defence.As well as the free-kicks and corners, every throw-in in the last third
of the pitch went into the box and the lads coped admirably apart from one
free-kick as Ivan Campo rose highest to head home El Hadji Diouf's cross from
the right.That levelled Robbie Keane's strike a matter of minutes earlier and we
certainly had the better chances in the second half as Steed Malbranque volleyed
just over and Jussi Jaaskelainen saved well from Teemu Tainio and Keane late
on."It was about two different styles and we had to cope with that style,"
reflected Martin. "Paul Robinson didn't have a lot to do, so that's good for us
in an away game but on the other hand, we had two or three opportunties to score
the second goal."It's never easy to go to Bolton but we coped with their style,
so that was positive."We tried to keep the ball on the deck in spells and if you
don't do that, you get an awful game. I don't think it was one of the greatest
games I've ever seen."Martin was quizzed by the media on his squad selection
with Gareth Bale and Jermain Defoe left out and Aaron Lennon on the bench.He
responded: "You have to make certain decisions. You can only have four outfield
players on the bench plus a goalkeeper, so you need a defender, a midfielder, a
winger and a forward. It was a choice between Aaron Lennon and Gareth Bale,
Gareth has played a lot of games in the last few weeks and he will get his
chance again."It was the same with Jermain Defoe. Robbie Keane has a great
record with away goals and did it again, so it's very important to have certain
players. Jermain scored twice against Anorthosis Famagusta and he's pushing for
a place again, so that's good."

Linked here: http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/

Tabloid Talk/BS

Source: The Guardian

Jose Mourinho has become a target for Tottenham Hotspur after parting
company with Chelsea in the early hours of yesterday morning. Spurs are believed
to be preparing a financially attractive offer that would allow the 44-year-old
Portuguese to remain in London, a city where he has recently declared himself
and his family "settled".After a poor start to the Premier League season that
included a 3-1 defeat at home to Arsenal on Saturday, Tottenham's current
manager, Martin Jol, must prevail against Bolton Wanderers on Sunday to buy
himself time at White Hart Lane. But whatever the impending results, Tottenham's
chairman, Daniel Levy, would install Mourinho in a heartbeat.Mourinho will have
no shortage of offers after becoming overnight one of the most sought-after
commodities in European football. When his relationship with Chelsea began to
break down in January, Real Madrid - currently Spain's league leaders -
approached him to succeed Fabio Capello.However, he set a spring 2007 deadline
to make the move and passed up the opportunity when that elapsed. Nevertheless
the stock of the man who steered Porto to an unlikely Champions League triumph
in 2004 remains high in Madrid, whose manager, Bernd Schuster, yesterday
admitted to difficulties in "having to adapt to Real Madrid, because it really
is a different world".Barcelona's Frank Rijkaard has been harassed after taking
only five points from the club's first three matches of the Spanish league
season. Leaks to the Catalan media from club directors, who expected a bigger
impact from their £16m summer signing from Arsenal, Thierry Henry, have raised
the pressure. Rijkaard has privately questioned whether he needs the stress of
managing a club at which perennial triumph is an expectation and it may not be
long before he leaves. That might open the door for a return to Camp Nou for
Mourinho, who worked there with Bobby Robson and Louis van Gaal.Reports in
Portugal suggested Mourinho and his tight-knit backroom staff would take up a
role with the national federation, but he is understood not to be immediately
interested. Portugal lie third in qualifying Group A for Euro 2008 but their
plans were disrupted when the coach, Luiz Felipe Scolari, received a four-match
touchline and dressing-room ban after the 1-1 draw with Serbia. The Brazilian
was also fined £8,479 for an attack on Serbia's Ivica Dragutinovic after the
defender was sent off. Scolari has previously stated he will quit Portugal after
Euro 2008 and last night the Portuguese were holding talks about his future.

- Guardian

"Not really concerned about this news. If we get Jose, congrats, he's a good coach/manager. Too bad I still like Martin Jol and want him to finish the season at least. We shall see if cooler heads prevail. Come On You Spurs!" ~me

Team News 9/21/2007

Courtesy of the Official Site-

There were no new injury concerns that emerged following the UEFA Cup victory over Anorthosis Famagusta on Thursday evening.
The only players not available for selection on Sunday against Bolton at the Reebok Stadium will be Ledley King (knee), Anthony Gardner (ankle) and Wayne Routledge (knee).

Linked here: http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news/articles/teamnews210907.html

Defoe's Brace

Courtesy of the Official Site-

Jermain Defoe believes our strikers proved they are the best in the business after three of them got on the score-sheet in Thursday’s 6-1 UEFA Cup win over Anorthosis Famagusta.
Jermain helped himself to two goals, while fellow front-men Robbie Keane and Darren Bent also chipped in to get our European campaign off to the perfect start. And ‘JD’ is confident such a convincing victory can send us into Sunday’s Premiership clash at Bolton full of confidence. He said: “We won, scored six goals, everyone’s buzzing, and that’s just what we needed. I’m delighted. “If you look at our forward line, I think it’s the best in the Premiership. Everyone can score goals because we’re all good players. “Robbie scored a great goal tonight and I’m delighted for Benty as well. He said he wasn’t happy with his goal – but they all count! Obviously I scored a couple and we all know what Berba can do, so this is important.” Jermain came off the bench in the second half against the Cypriots to open his account for the season, and he praised our fans for the ovation they gave him on his introduction. He added: “I’ve got to say thanks to the fans. If it wasn’t for them, I don’t think I’d have been able to score those two goals. They lifted me and gave me energy.”

Linked here: http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news/articles/bestinthebusiness.html

"Six Appeal"

Courtesy of the Official Site-

It was positives all the way for Martin Jol after our 6-1 demolition of
Anorthosis Famagusta in the UEFA Cup first round, first leg at the Lane on
Thursday night.
Younes Kaboul started the ball rolling with a goal inside
five minutes before Michael Dawson, Robbie Keane and Darren Bent scored within
minutes of each other to make it a resounding 4-0 at the break.
Jermain Defoe
then stole the show in the second half with a sweet double-strike - a clever
chip over the keeper from 20 yards before a powerfully-struck curler into the
top corner to complete the scoring in injury time. The only slight
disappointment was Famagusta's goal, but it should prove immaterial.
"I
told the players after the draw was made that we were pretty happy but you never
know, you still have to do it," reflected Martin.
"You have to score your
goals and not concede - that was the only annoying thing, to concede that
goal.
"On the other hand, there were only positives out there. Benoit
Assou-Ekotto had a very good game, his first game for a while, Aaron Lennon
started for the first time this season and all my strikers scored.
"I had a
fellow on the bench and it was typical for him to come on and score like that -
that was all about his eagerness.
"Jermain made an impact and that's what I
had in mind, that's why I put him on.
"The strikers have to make the
difference and if they do that, there is no problem at all. Robbie Keane could
have scored three, Darren Bent scored his goal and Berbatov was on the
bench.
"If they can push each other and prove themselves all the time then
they'll make it difficult for me, but there are no guarantees for any player. I
look at each game seperately."

Linked here: http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news/articles/sixappeal210907.html

Houghton's Notes 9/20/2007

Courtesy of the Official Site-

Chris Hughton gives us an idea of what to expect when Cyprus side Anorthosis
Famagusta arrive at the Lane for a UEFA Cup first round, first leg
tie tonight.
I HAD an oppportunity to watch Anorthosis Famagusta a
couple of weeks ago and we've had reports since then and they are a big side
that don't concede many goals. They have enough ability in the side to cause
teams problems and the only question is what side they will put out as they have
a big squad to choose from and they've chopped and changed regularly.
In most
games they've gone with a 4-3-3 with the three in midfield George Panagi, a
holding midfielder and a couple of decent players, Zlogar, who breaks forward
and Deynov, a Bulgarian who is good on the ball.
The consistent players
have been Sosin, a target man and they've changed in the wider areas.
One players most English fans will know is Marian Pahars, who did well at
Southampton. He's been in and out of the side. Belic can also play either
side and they have two Brazilians who they can call on in Boaventura and
Pereira.
They are strong cross the back with centrally Lamprou,
Katsavakis alongside him and in the full-back positions Poursaitidis and
Ndikumana, who can play left or right and has decent pace.
What tends
to happen when you line-up against the likes of Anorthosis Famagusta, who are
playing a team with European experience. It's the same with a team like
Rosenborg, who got a result at Chelsea, they might not be as strong but they are
in Europe year in, year out and have that experience.
Anorthosis Famagusta
might not have qualified for the group stages of the Champions League, but
they've had years in the qualifying rounds and that's what we're up
against.
However, we're at home, we're strong at home and ideally we'd
like to be able to travel to Cyprus in a couple of weeks time in a favourable
position after this home leg.

Linked here: http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news/articles/hughtonsnotes200907.html

UEFA Cup First Round 9/20/2007

SPURS 0 - 0 ANORTHOSIS
at White Hart Lane

Spurs:

Cerny,
Chimbonda,
Dawson,
Kaboul,
Ekkoto,
Lennon,
Huddlestone,
Zokora,
Malbranque,
Keane,
Bent

Subs:
Robinson, Rocha, Bale, Jenas, Berbatov, Defoe, Taarabt

Anorthosis Famagusta
Beqaj
Lambrou
Katsavakis
Nicolaou
Zlogar
Poursaitides
Pereira
Sosin
Loumpoutis
Skopelitis
Boaventura

Substitutes:
Nagy, Tripotseris, Frousos, Pahars, Panagi, Deyanov, Constantinou,

Mourinho to Replace Jol?

Source: Daily Mail

Tottenham have emerged as one of the favourites to become Jose Mourinho's
next stop in his whirlwind managerial career.The Special One parted company with
Chelsea last night and bookmakers Coral predict White Hart Lane could be his
next destination, along with Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid. It's no
secret that Tottenham manager Martin Jol is under intense pressure after
saturday's 3-1 defeat at home to Arsenal.And if his men were failed to convince
against Cyprus underdogs Anorthosis Famagusta tonight or at Bolton on Sunday his
position could become untenable.The Spurs board have already been linked with
Seville coach Juande Ramos and may view Mourinho as too good to pass over.They
had talks with the Portuguese manager before he left Porto for Chelsea and were
believed to be close to snaring their target until Roman Abramovich stepped in
with his fistful of roubles.And Mourinho has lavished praise on Spurs in the
past, knows there would be a sizeable transfer war chest at his disposal and
would be able to retain his family roots in London - a city he has fallen in
love with.Barcelona is an unlikely destination as he burned his bridges at the
Nou Camp during the infamous Champions League bust-up and Real madrid have only
just appointed a new man at the Bernabeu helm.Top clubs around Europe will today
be considering a move for Mourinho but a switch from South London to the north
of the capital isn't quite as fanciful as it first seems.

Robert Jordan/James Oliver Rigney Jr. (not THFC related)

My favorite author passed away yesterday afternoon. His "The Wheel of Time" series of books remains incomplete. Apparently he did dictate the plot lines and scripts for the final book/chapter. There are currently 11 books in this series. Jordan has been dictating outlines and plot lines while planning on using an "army of writers" to convert those tapes into written form.

I would like to extend my condolences to the grieving widow and the rest of the Rigney family.

~PageVee

The following is Courtesy of DragonMount.com and Robert Jordan's personal Blog-

Sometimes even
when you’ve fought your best…. Posted by Wilson on September 16th, 2007 in
the Robert
Jordan's Blog category

It is with great sadness that I tell you that
the Dragon is gone. RJ left us today at 2:45 PM. He fought a valiant fight
against this most horrid disease. In the end, he left peacefully and in no pain.
In the years he had fought this, he taught me much about living and about facing
death. He never waivered in his faith, nor questioned our God’s timing. I could
not possibly be more proud of anyone. I am eternally grateful for the time that
I had with him on this earth and look forward to our reunion, though as I told
him this afternoon, not yet. I love you bubba.
Our beloved Harriet was at
his side through the entire fight and to the end. The last words from his mouth
were to tell her that he loved her.
Thank each and everyone of you for your
prayers and support through this ordeal. He knew you were there. Harriet
reminded him today that she was very proud of the many lives he had touched
through his work. We’ve all felt the love that you’ve been sending my
brother/cousin. Please keep it coming as our Harriet could use the
support.
Jason will be posting funeral arrangements.

My sincerest
thanks.
Peace and Light be with each of you,
WilsonBrother/Cousin4th of
3
To Catalyst: Never, never loose faith. RJ did not. Harriet hasn’t. I
haven’t. Going through what we have, our faith is only strengthened. Besides, if
God didn’t exist, we would have never had Jim. We did. God does. Remember my
Brother/Cousin, my friend, think of him fondly and glorify God’s name.
Editor’s Note:The entire staff of Dragonmount.com would like to extend its
most deepest sympathies to Robert Jordan’s family. He touched all of our lives
in some way and we wish him the rest and peace he deserves. We will be posting
information in the near future about where you can send condolences. Please
check the News
Section for these updates.

Linked here: http://www.dragonmount.com.nyud.net:8090/RobertJordan/?p=90

You can learn a bit more about Robert Jordan and his life here Courtesy of Wikipedia-
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_jordan

SUPERSPORT UNITED/TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR ACADEMY PARTNERSHIP

Courtesy of the Official Site-

The Club is delighted to announce the formation of a partnership with SuperSport United in South Africa that will see the clubs' Academies working together.
Damien Comolli, Tottenham Hotspur Sporting Director, said: “This represents an excellent opportunity for both Clubs. It is a mutually beneficial partnership that will see both our academies gain from the association.” Tottenham Hotspur Academy Manager John McDermott said: “There is a coaching exchange element that will see our coaches share their methodology and tactics with their South African counterparts. There are also opportunities for top young talent from both teams to travel to Europe and Africa on a regular basis and train with the respective squads in exchange programmes and compete in tournaments.” Comolli continues: “We will aim to bring one or two players a year over to train with our home grown talent, and I do not think it is unrealistic to expect that, in a few years’ time, the majority of players in the South African national squad will have come from the SuperSport Academy. We will look to develop talent – talent that may have a place with us, but also talent for the South African game. The deal is a win/win situation for Spurs and for SuperSport United players and fans.” Stanley Matthews, SuperSport United Director of Football, expressed his delight with the partnership. He said: “We are a young club, celebrating our tenth anniversary this year. We feel proud to be officially linked to a truly great club such as Tottenham Hotspur who are rich with heritage and tradition. We are confident that this partnership will leave a legacy far beyond the technical and scientific dimension to the relationship. As South Africa moves towards the 2010 World Cup, SuperSport United sees this partnership with Tottenham Hotspur as a watershed moment that will shape the destiny of South African football as well as football development in the African continent.” SuperSport United Chairman Khulu Sibiya said that the association with Tottenham Hotspur represented a wonderful opportunity for young South African players from disadvantaged backgrounds to transcend their personal situations and themselves become role models. He said: “Our youngsters now have access to the highest level of coaching expertise from one of the greatest Clubs in the world. They have every reason to believe that this hard work will be richly rewarded, not only financially but also in education and life skill development.” SuperSport, based in South Africa, broadcasts across the continent – five time zones, 57 countries and 1.7m households. It covers approximately 100 sport codes including the Olympic Games, FIFA World Cup, IRB World Cup Rugby, ICC Cricket World Cup and the Commonwealth Games and owns an interest in various sports teams – two rugby, one football (SuperSport United FC) and three cricket. SuperSport is also an founder sponsor of the National Sports Trust, South Africa’s most respected sports development body. CLICK HERE for the official SuperSport United website. Tottenham Hotspur has a special place in its heart for South Africa, a relationship that goes back to the time of the double-winning side of the 1960’s and the country has always made Spurs feel very welcome on the two tours we have made since then. Most recently, the squad went to South Africa this summer on a pre-season tour. The tour saw the squad take time out to meet with children from the SOS Children’s Village in Cape Town – a charitable project the Club holds dear. Using funds from the players’ fine money and underwritten by the Club, the Club has funded the construction of an SOS Children’s house for orphaned and abandoned children in Rustenberg. For more information on the SOS Children’s Villages, visit www.soschildrensvillages.org.ukThe Supersport Tottenham Hotspur Academy will be officially launched at half time of the Tottenham Hotspur v Arsenal game on Saturday September 15 at White Hart Lane.

Linked here: http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news/articles/supersporttottenhamhotspuracademypartnership140907.html

North London Derby match report

Courtesy of Official Site-

A second goal in two games from Gareth Bale proved not enough as Arsenal hit back in the second half to clinch the three points.
Bale's precision free-kick in the first half threatened to provide a springboard to further goals and eventual success, but subsequent chances were not converted and punishment for this was cruel and clinical. Michael Dawson returned to the starting fold in the only change to the team that began so brightly against Fulham last time out, while there was a place in the 16 for Aaron Lennon following his recovery after knee surgery. The atmosphere was sizzling in the early afternoon sun at the beginning of a fixture that requires nothing in the way of hype or build-up. It took a smart early save from Paul Robinson to prevent the contest taking an early turn for the worse, with the England goalkeeper diving right to parry away a dipping smash from Emmanuel Adebayor. Tom Huddlestone was an elegant, yet still imposing, figure in the middle of the park early on, but it was Bale who once again produced a show-stopping moment on 14 minutes. Dimitar Berbatov was bought down by Gilberto and Huddlestone, Bale and Younes Kaboul stood there on the prowl waiting for referee Mr Clattenburg to sound his whistle with the signal to proceed. Bale strode forward and executed a devilish free-kick that zipped around the wall before taking a perfectly measured bounce in front of Manuel Almunia to deceive the goalkeeper, rattle the netting and send the Lane into raptures. The was a period of alert at our end when Arsenal broke at speed through Cesc Fabregas and, via Adebayor, Alexander Hleb drilled in a shot that Robinson did particularly well to palm away. A high speed break then took place heading in the other direction involving Jermaine Jenas and Robbie Keane, but the decisive ball fell just behind, rather than in front of the intended marksman. Hleb carved open our defences just after the half hour mark when he deftly played in Abou Diaby to the left of our area and, with the midfielder seemingly poised to level, he smashed the ball goalwards and instead of rattling netting, he tested the stability of the crossbar. It was a high speed meeting of a high quality and, apart from the scoreline, a pretty even one true to the nature of these fixtures at the Lane in recent seasons. The second period carried on at a similar lung-busting pace with the clearest opening coming when Steed Malbranque set Berbatov free and the striker rounded Almunia before Kolo Toure made a block that could well have been crucial come the final reckoning. The point was nearly illustrated when Bacary Sagna squared for Adebayor to have a free potshot on goal, but thankfully the striker blazed over the bar. Huddlestone pretty much remained the conductor, keeping the team ticking along in tune from midfield. The Arsenal reaction was to send on Tomas Rosicky for Diaby in order to probably add a more diminutive but creative element to the visitors. Approaching the hour though, it was the team in all white doing all the pressing in a bid to extend the advantage, with Berbatov asking questions that only last-second lunges, or lack of immediate support, provided solutions to from an Arsenal perspective. There was always that threat on the break lurking, but it was one of our own lead by Chimbonda that presented Huddlestone with a chance on the volley. Unfortunately his effort went askew. The team weren't getting a single decision going their way and from a set piece on 65 minutes taken by Fabregas, the head of Adebayor rose highest and the ball landed in the back of our net. Keane was through on Almunia a couple of minutes later with the keeper standing firm before the introduction of Lennon in place of a struggling Bale. Robinson was next in the thick of it, however, with a good low stop to deny Robin Van Persie. Moments after a Berbatov effort was cleared off the line Arsenal stole forward and Fabregas unleashed a shot that flew beyond Robinson and into the top corner on 79 minutes. Cue the entry of Darren Bent. A huge deflated feeling was hanging in the air as once again a couple of moments wiped out nearly a whole game of hard work. Bent had a big chance to restore parity after being put clean through by Jenas, but lost his nerve in front of goal and ended up not testing Almunia. No such problems for Adebayor cashed in on the open spaces left by chasing the game in injury time by smashing a dipping volley high past the despairing dive of Robinson, who had earlier blocked well a shot from the substitute Denilson.It was another afternoon where the team did not get the reward their performance deserved, but also one that outlined the consequences of not taking your chances.

Linked here: http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news/articles/matchreport_arsenal_h_07.html

North London Derby Final

Rough end to the Derby.

Tottenham 1 - Arsenal more than 1

Team played well, just too many squandered chances by the front 3.

North London Derby update

Tottenham 1 - Arsenal 0

halftime

Bale in the 15th from a free kick

Remember 9/11

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/September_11,_2001_attacks

We will never forget.

Lennon back for the North London Derby?

Courtesy of Fox Sports~

Martin Jol is considering unleashing Aaron Lennon against Arsenal
on Saturday as Tottenham look to turn around their poor start to the season.
Lennon, 20, has been out of action since undergoing knee surgery at the end of last season and was close to a return against Fulham before the international break but did not feel 100%. "He trained last week and is looking good, although he lacks a bit of match fitness so that's a decision we have to make," said Jol.

Without Lennon, Spurs have won once in their five Premier League matches so far, with Fulham's last-minute equaliser at Craven Cottage adding to the misery.
Jol's position as manager has been under scrutiny after Spurs
officials met Sevilla coach Juande Ramos, and the Dutchman has not been helped
by a long list of injuries in his squad.

However, he has had Darren Bent (thigh), Anthony Gardner (groin) and Benoit Assou-Ekotto (knee) all training again. "It's very positive news for us," said Jol. "Darren Bent is back and looked in good form. He did everything in training with us.
"Benoit and Anthony Gardner are also back and that gives us more options. I feel it's an exciting time for us." Centre-back Michael Dawson has also stepped up his
return to full fitness from his ankle injury with an appearance for the reserves during the international break. With Arsenal level on points at the top of the table, Jol hopes his players return on Thursday with no further problems after playing for their countries. "First things first, we have to get all the players back from international duty so we can make an assessment, but it's the same for Arsenal,"
Jol added. "We've still five or six players who did all the training
sessions last week, we had a good week with the lads who are here and we're all
looking forward to it."

Barclays Premier League on FSCSat., Sep. 15, 8:30 a.m. (LIVE) - Tottenham vs. ArsenalSat., Sep. 15, 10:30 a.m. (LIVE) - West Ham vs. MiddlesbroughSat., Sep. 15, 12:00 p.m. - Chelsea vs. BlackburnSun., Sep. 16, 11:00 a.m. (LIVE) - Manchester City vs. Aston Villa
All times ET, subject to change.

Linked here: http://msn.foxsports.com/soccer/story/7214032

Fox Soccer Channel line-up Sept 15, 2007

North London Derby

Sat. Sep. 15
Premier League
Tottenham - Arsenal
8:30 a.m.

Sat. Sep. 15
Premier League
West Ham -Middlesbrough
10:30 a.m.

Sat. Sep. 15
Premier League
Chelsea -Blackburn
12:00 p.m.

Sat. Sep. 15
Serie A
Lazio -Empoli
2:30 p.m.

Sat. Sep. 15
Serie A
Siena -AC Milan
4:30 p.m.

Sat. Sep. 15
MLS
Pregame Show
8:00 p.m.

Sat. Sep. 15
MLS
Chicago Fire -New York Red Bulls
8:30 p.m.

Sat. Sep. 15
MLS
Postgame Show
10:30 p.m.

Sat. Sep. 15
Euro Qualifier
England -Russia
12:00 a.m. (repeat of Wed match)

UEFA Cup First Round

Courtesy of the Official Site-

Following Friday’s UEFA Cup 1st Round draw, we will be playing Anorthosis
Famagusta at home in the 1st Leg of the tie on Thursday September
20, kick-off 8pm. This is a season ticket inclusive match. Tickets will be
on sale to One Hotspur members from Wednesday September 5 at 9.30am.
The 2nd
Leg of the tie will take place in Larnaca, Cyprus, on Thursday October 4. This
match will kick-off at 9pm local time (7pm UK). Anorthosis Famagusta
have now confirmed that the match will be played in the Antonis Papadopolous
stadium which has a capacity of 9,600.
Under UEFA Cup competition rules, we
are entitled to an allocation of 5% of the stadium capacity. This allocation
will be used to meet all of the Club’s ticket requirements. Priority will be
given to One Hotspur Platinum members, subject to ticket availability.
Club
officials will be travelling to Cyprus tomorrow (Wednesday September 5) and will
seek to establish whether there is any possibility of securing a larger
allocation of tickets. At this point, with such a small potential allocation, we
are unable to confirm official travel arrangements. However, we would strongly
advise supporters NOT to book independent flights or any unofficial travel until
our ticket allocation is confirmed.
We will be able to provide supporters
with a further update on the ticket allocation and official Club travel packages
within the next 24 hours.

Linked here: http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news/articles/uefacupfirstround040907.html

"The Jol Verdict" on Fulham

Courtesy of the Official Site-

Martin Jol gives his considered reaction to the 3-3 draw with Fulham at the
weekend...
I CAN STILL hardly believe that we left Craven Cottage without
three points to our name on Saturday.We dictated the game, everybody saw that,
and it was probably our best away performance for a long time. The first
problem, once again, came from a corner kick and I keep on saying it, but you
have to be strong. They attacked the ball, we didn't and Fulham got a free
header from which they scored. It gave them a leg-up before half-time, but after
the break we got our passing going again and created chances - Dimitar had a
great chance cleared off the line, Steed hit the post and Jermaine was through
one on one with the keeper. We got a third, but if we had got the fourth we
wouldn't have had to change anything and it would have been an easier game for
us. Then there was the deflected goal when luck went against us to make 3-2. We
changed it and Jermain Defoe came on, which is what we have done over the last
couple of years with our strikers. Jermain was hungry, fresh and most of the
time changes like this have come off for us as we have scored so many goals
following substitutions in the past. This time it didn't come for us, or the
change in bringing on Michael Dawson, but I have seen similar substitutions made
- like by Chelsea up at Liverpool recently when they ended the game with three
central defenders and collected a point. Manchester United did it last season
when 1-0 up against Arsenal and Sir Alex Ferguson probably had the same feeling
as I did about needing a big man and they lost the game in the final seconds of
the match. Not quite so much was said on that occasion. To lose a lead so late
on is horrific, but it shouldn't have been necessary to make a change because
our lead should have been greater. I did feel that Robbie looked a little tired
and when you have someone like Jermain on the bench it makes sense to use him. A
couple of weeks ago when I didn't against Derby County people asked why. When
you are so comfortable and dictating a game, a striker for a striker is no
problem. It has nothing to do with tactics and any discussion on the subject is
with the benefit of hindsight. Our main problem was in giving away the second
goal. You could say you should play in the opposition's half, but that is what
you try for all the time. Aston Villa had 15 per cent possession against Chelsea
in the last 15 minutes on Sunday and they still won comfortably because you have
to defend. If Chelsea had scored Aston Villa would have been questioned on
giving away the initiative like we were, but that is football. I think it is bad
if you don't make decisions and leave things all the time. We don't do that, I
will make decisions and keep on doing it. I make decisions to try and make us
better. Two years ago we rarely gave away a lead, while last season we recovered
from going a goal down on a number of occasions and went on to win games. That
has more to do with tactics than changing a striker, but you have to deal with
criticism because that is the business. It would be ideal to have another game
this week to put things right rather than getting a number of our players back
on the Thursday or Friday before the Arsenal game due to the internationals.
That is the way it is though and all the managers have to contend with this. We
will bounce back like we always do and, don't forget, we played well against
Derby and Manchester United, while we also played some good football against
Fulham. I think we should have eight points now and if we keep on playing in the
same fashion, while cutting out errors, we will soon get the points our
performances deserve.

Linked here: http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news/articles/thejolverdict040907.html

"Bitter Sweet for Bale"

Courtesy of the Official Site-

Gareth Bale admitted having mixed feelings after his first goal for us in the
3-3 draw at Fulham.
The Welsh youngster was naturally delighted to open his
account in Spurs colours in only his second start for us following injury
problems in pre-season. That goal – a cool finish after running onto Robbie
Keane’s pass – put us in command again at Craven Cottage having earlier led
2-0 but the home side hit back from 3-1 via a deflected goal and Diomansi
Kamara’s spectacular overhead kick in injury time to leave us with a share of
the spoils in a game we had dominated. "It was disappointing,” reflected Gareth
before joining the Welsh squad for European Championship qualifiers against
Germany and Slovakia. “We had a lot of chances to win the game but didn't take
them so we paid the price. Hopefully we can work on that in training and get it
right for the next game. "For me there were mixed feelings but the main thing is
the team and not individuals. We've got to learn from our mistakes and kick on
from here again. "They got a lucky goal which put us on the back foot but we've
got to be stronger, more resilient and hopefully we can learn from it and kick
on. "Everyone was gutted and considering we were two goals up felt like a loss.
We've just got to show our character, push ourselves forward and hopefully kick
on from here."

Linked here: http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news/articles/bittersweetforbale060907.html

"Transfer Wrap-Up"

Courtesy of the Official Site-

TRANSFER ROUND-UP
The curtain has come down on another busy summer transfer
window with six arrivals all determined to make their mark at the Lane.
It is
an indication of the stability of the squad that wholesale changes were not
required this time around and players were pinpointed and landed early on in the
summer to allow for a settled set of players before the season started. Deals
were struck shortly after the transfer window opened to capture hot
prospect Gareth Bale from Southampton and England international striker Darren
Bent from Charlton. Highly-rated French Under-21 international captain Younes
Kaboul arrived from Auxerre in July and was soon joined by German Under-21
international midfielder Kevin-Prince Boateng, the former German Young Player of
the Year signing from Hertha Berlin. All four of these signings were snapped up
despite interest from a number of other clubs in the Premier League and across
Europe, while we also continued our policy of strengthening at all levels with
the arrivals of Spanish youth international left-back Yuri Berchiche from
Athletic Bilbao and England Under-17 left-sided midfielder Danny Rose from
Leeds United, both players aged 17. Prodigious young French forward Adel
Taarabt, also just 18, made his loan deal from RC Lens permanent. Martin Jol
believes the additions to the squad will bode the Club well not just in the
immediate future but also in the long-term. “The signings we have made offer us
a big improvement in terms of the quality of our squad, but they also have great
potential and we believe their best years are firmly ahead of them. “Darren Bent
has scored goals wherever he has been and he is still only 23. All our forwards
offer something different and Darren has a great ability to exploit the space
behind defenders with his pace and this will prove a real asset for us
particularly on our travels. “We have also added a naturally left-footed player
to our ranks in Gareth Bale who can play at left-back but also showed his
ability on the left side of midfield at Old Trafford last Sunday. He has
exceptional physical attributes for an 18-year-old and has already shown us his
quality from set-pieces. “Younes Kaboul has demonstrated this season the
importance of having quality in all positions after we lost Michael Dawson and
Ledley King before the season had even started. He possesses great pace and
strength, while also being a big personality around the squad. “Kevin-Prince
Boateng is an exciting prospect and is considered one of the best upcoming
talents in Germany. He is strong and attack-minded and is versatile across the
midfield. "It is good to see how quickly they all have settled and their
additions have only added to the great spirit we already have amongst the
players here." Damien Comolli believes we will, in the future, have a further
group of established internationals in our ranks following our summer transfer
window activity. Gareth and Darren are already capped and in the early stages of
their full international careers with Wales and England respectively, while
Younes is captain of the France Under-21 side having previously been a member of
the Under-19 team that won the European Championships, staged in Northern
Ireland in 2005. Kevin, winner of the prestigious Fritz Walter Gold Medal Award
after being voted Best Young Player in Germany in July, 2006, has represented
his country at Under-21 level. Our younger arrivals Yuri and Danny, both
17, are youth internationals for Spain and England and are regarded as the
biggest talents in their positions for their age-group. Adel Taarabt, 18, is
capped by France at Under-16, U-17 and U-18 level. "All of the players are
internationals for their age-group or at full senior level," said the Sporting
Director. "They are big talents and we are confident they will fulfil their
potential at this club and go on to have successful international careers. "This
would be good for them, but also good for us as international football can only
broaden their experience, which can only be of benefit to our squad. "Our club
is an environment where young players can realise these ambitions as
demonstrated by young players like Michael Dawson and Aaron Lennon breaking into
the England set-up over the last couple of seasons," added Damien, who went on
to explain the importance of completing our transfer business early this summer.
"It is an extremely competitive marketplace for quality players and we acted
quickly to land our targets. "We always set out to emerge from a transfer window
in a stronger position than when we entered it and I fully believe this is the
case once again." Danny Murphy was the most recent of the departures from the
Club this summer when he secured a permanent move to Fulham in the final hour on
deadline day, while Mido was sold earlier in the month to Middlesbrough. Emil
Hallfredsson, Reto Ziegler, Mark Yeates, Charlie Lee and Robert Burch also left
us and we wish them all the best in the future. Meanwhile, Lee Barnard has
joined Crewe Alexandra on loan until January, Charlie Daniels has hooked up with
Leyton Orient for the season and Jamie O’Hara went to Millwall for a month’s
loan in August.

Linked here: http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news/articles/transferroundup.html

Carling Cup Action

Courtesy of Official Site-

HOME TO BORO
We have been drawn at home to Middlesbrough in the 3rd round of the Carling Cup.
Tie to be played in the week beginning September 24.Pricing - TBCLoyalty Points - TBCThis match is included as part of our Season Ticket package, so One Hotspur Platinum, Gold and Silver Season Ticket Holders do not need to purchase match tickets. Tickets will go on sale to One Hotspur Bronze and Lilywhite Members at 9.30am on Wednesday 5th September. Tickets will go on general sale at 9.30am on Wednesday 12th September. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting HERE or over the phone on 0844 499 5000 or over the counter at the Paxton Road Ticket Office.

Linked here: http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news/articles/hometoboro.html

"Cottage Sigh"

Courtesy of Official Site-

LATEST NEWS
COTTAGE SIGH
Martin Jol pinpointed two keys areas as to how
we somehow came away with a draw at Fulham rather than the deserved three
points.
The boss insisted the failure to build on our leads at 2-0 and 3-1 up
and poor goals conceded cost us at Craven Cottage as the home side dramatically
levelled at 3-3 via Diomany Kamara's overhead kick in the 90th
minute.
The story of the game saw us sail into a 2-0 lead via Younes Kaboul
and Dimitar Berbatov, Clint Dempsey gave Fulham a lifeline with a goal just
before the break, Gareth Bale put us 3-1 up, Steed Malbranque hit the post,
Berba had a shot cleared off the line and then Fulham rallied via Alexey
Smertin's deflected effort and Kamara's equaliser.
"At 2-0 we should have
scored the third and fourth and we didn't do it," reflected Martin
afterwards.
"We then conceded a corner and a clean header and you can't
concede goals like that.
"At 3-1 we hit the post and then had a ball cleared
off the line from Berbatov, so you could say we were a bit unfortunate as well.
On the other hand, even at 3-2 up, you have to defend more clinically. The
equaliser was a throw-in and you have to win the first or second
ball.
"There didn't seem to be any problems but then again, every opportunity
ended up with a goal, including the deflection for the second.
"At 2-0 up we
could have scored a third or fourth, their crowd was frustrated and it seems
amazing that we still ended up with just a point.
"We lost against Sunderland
in the dying seconds as well, so I can't say we are unfortunate all the time. If
it's a wonderful attack then fair enough, but it was a corner kick and a
throw-in. We have to defend better and cut the mistakes out.
"You've seen the
games against Sunderland and Manchester United - we should have seven or eight
points."

Linked here: http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news/articles/cottagesigh010907.html

Danny Murphy to Fulham on Last Day

Courtesy of Official Site-

LATEST NEWS
DANNY TO FULHAM
We have reached agreement for the
permanent transfer of Danny Murphy to Fulham.
Danny joined us from Charlton
in January 2006, going on to make 29 First Team appearances in our colours. We
wish Danny every success for the future.

Linked here: http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news/articles/dannytofulham310807.html