Tottenham Thread

[mrbojangles]

Yeah unlucky lads. If Berbatove would have got that one in about the 80th minute. It could have been a different story. As us City fans are always having to say "oh well, roll on next season"

[markr]

MARTIN JOL'S BLUE AND WHITE ARMY...........

Martin Jol revealed that pride and a determination to keep our fantastic home record in European competition intact made sure we went out of the UEFA Cup with a bang against Sevilla.

The Spanish title-chasers all-but put the quarter-final beyond us with a two-goal blast inside the opening eight minutes in Thursday night's second leg at the Lane.

Trailing 2-1 from the first leg in Seville, it meant we had to find four goals and win the second leg 4-2 to progress on aggregate.

It was a mountain to climb but hopes were raised when Jermain Defoe scored with his first touch after coming off the bench and Aaron Lennon added the second within a minute, making it 2-2 on the night and 4-3 down on aggregate with 25 minutes remaining.

Unfortunately, a couple of chances went begging and the scoreline stayed the same.

However, the draw means our record of only losing one home game in European competition stands - ironically enough, to Spanish opposition in a game that also included an own goal, Steve Perryman putting through his own net in a 1-0 first leg loss to Real Madrid in the UEFA Cup at the Lane back in March, 1985.

"That's what we said at half-time - the club had only lost once at home in Europe in our history, so let's play with pride, get something out of it and the main thing was not to lose," said Martin.

"That's exactly what they did because you saw two different halves. I don't think Sevilla created much more, we pressurised them, used all our attacking players and you can say at 2-2 it didn't come off but I still feel if we'd scored the third, we might have done it. Having said all that, the damage was done in the first eight minutes.

"We lost against a good Sevilla team and we have to learn from it. Even in the first leg, we could have scored two more goals and at this level, you can't concede goals like the first one.

"It's half-way through April and we're out of the cups now, but it's been an exciting season.

"The only thing now is to pick ourselves up and do well in the league because I feel we are still in a good position for next season"

Never mind !

[markr]

WIGAN 3 - 3 SPURS

The lads fought back on three occasions as a thriller against Wigan at the JJB Stadium ended in a 3-3 draw on Sunday afternoon.

We trailed three times - the first with under a minute on the clock - but goals from Dimitar Berbatov and a double from Robbie Keane secured a point.

Martin Jol made two changes to the side that made a gallant exit from the UEFA Cup on Thursday, with the rested Ledley King being replaced in central defence by Ricardo Rocha and Phil Ifil being drafted in at left back - allowing Teemu Tainio to take over from Steed Malbranque on the left of midfield.

In front of another fine following who made the trip north - especially given that this was our fifth game in 15 days - the game got underway on a fine April afternoon in the north west.

It wasn't such a fine beginning to the afternoon for us as, with less than a minute on the clock, the curse of the set piece struck again. A free-kick from Denny Landzaat was not cleared despite several attempts and eventually Emile Heskey nodded past Paul Robinson.

The response was swift and decisive. Three and a half minutes in Robbie Keane dragged the ball in from the right and supplied Berbatov, who purposefully strode past two markers before carefully placing past John Filan to level the scores.

The Berbatov-Keane axis was looking promising - the captain providing more the supply line - while the Bulgarian should perhaps have done better when he found himself right in the flight path of a Jermaine Jenas corner.

Wigan's offside trap was well and truly sprung on 20 minutes by the front combination but, with Jenas waiting, Berbatov picked out the run of Keane for his cutback. Unfortunately, Keane did not make the required clean connection and Landzaat was able to blocked his slightly scuffed shot.

The home side then conjured up a threat of their own when Heskey excellently picked out the advancing Paul Scharner who, in turn, slotted through to Lee McCulloch and it took a brave lunge from Michael Dawson to knock the Scot out of his stride.

Just before the half hour mark the advantage was seized by Wigan again when a headed clearance from Dawson to the right hand corner of the penalty area was returned with interest by Leighton Baines - the little full-back striking a lofted volley beyond the reach of Robinson and into the top corner.

Dawson could have levelled moments later but just failed to make contact with a Jenas corner. We did not have too long to wait though as the speed on Jenas caught Wigan cold on the counter attack.

The midfielder sped down the left before being tracked by the retreating Baines, but the England under-21 man then lost control and JJ was back on the run and eventually felled by Filan inside the area. Keane was cool as you like from the spot and slotted to Filan's left with 35 minutes gone.

There was another clear and present danger just before the break when a Ryan Taylor cross from the right was met full on by the head of Scharner, bringing a fine save out of Robinson, with Kevin Kilbane heading the rebound over the bar.

Robbo was back in the thick of the action early in the second half with a smart save to deny Landzaat, but perhaps not surprisingly both managers probably sought to congest some of the open spaces the midfielders were able to operate in during the first half and the game was not quite as free-flowing as before.

Scharner was unlucky though with a drive that clipped the top of the bar ten minutes after the interval. As a result of a Emmerson Boyce cross the Austrian blasted across the face of goal after Kilbane missed with his head.

He certainly didn't do that on the hour from a Taylor corner, the Irishman stole in unmarked to power a header past Robinson to once again secure the lead. Filan then did well to fend off a Jenas free-kick that was edging dangerously close to his top corner.

Steed Malbranque was introduced in place of a tiring Tainio before Keane took centre stage with a moment of brilliance on 67 minutes. A long punt from Robinson deceived the Wigan defence and Keane sprinted forward and lobbed Filan with a dipping shot from 20 yards. Such was the fizz it was hit with, you wondered for a moment if the ball would bounce over the bar.

Jermain Defoe came on for Aaron Lennon with 15 minutes remaining in a bid to snatch maximum points - a move that saw Keane operate from the right of midfield. It was Pascal Chimbonda of all people who maybe should have scored next - something that would not have gone down too well with the home support. He was denied by a late block in a game not distinguished by quality defending.

Robinson had to claw Scharner's 40-yard dipper from under his crossbar in the last of the noteworthy action and a draw was about right.

[markr]

Arsenal tommorrow, let's hope we can get a win over the arch enemy!

[markr]

ROBBO ON THE HOME STRAIGHT

Paul Robinson believes we are in a strong position as we head into the final four games of the season.

We travel to Middlesbrough on Saturday for a vital encounter, bearing in mind our European ambitions, before having a clear seven days ahead of a busy week we Charlton, Blackburn and Manchester City will provide the opposition.

Robbo suspects that, in the final week, with most other teams awaiting their last game on the Sunday, us having three games will prove an advantage in as much as the team will know pretty much exactly what is required.

"We're in a great position," insisted the goalkeeper. "Numbers-wise we're in ninth, but we've got one more game to play. Come the last week of the season we play Charlton on the Monday night so when everyone else has got one left, we'll have three left - Monday, Thursday, Sunday - so we'll know exactly what we've got to do.

"I realistically think we've got a good chance of finishing fifth," he continued, adding that back to back European quests is not only an aim, but a requirement.

"Getting into Europe this year would be expected. We need to get in there, but it would be an achievement given the amount of games we've had. I think it is just another step on the progression ladder.

"We are progressing all the time, a lot of the lads have gained experience from this year with playing in Europe and it has been a fantastic campaign. It will stand us in good stead for next season as well, hopefully.

"We should be doing it if you look at the players and squad we've got. We've got to be getting in there because we class ourselves as a massive club and we can't let other clubs get into Europe ahead of us."

[kevio252]

Spurs are RUBBISH!

[markr]

Hope you dont mind me posting the info in your thread chonabot, I get sent the news letter and just like to pass it on,

have you always been an oxfordshire bloke??

Mark

[markr]

Spurs are RUBBISH!

Go down the paxton road and say that!

[MiG16]

boys boys

what did I start oh wait...I didnt start this just being a good observer

[markr]

boys boys

what did I start oh wait...I didnt start this just being a good observer

You ole stirrer you!

Trust a woman to get two blokes scrapping!

[chonabot]

Middlesbrough 2-3 Tottenham

By Sam Lyon

Berbatov and Keane celebrate another virtuoso display up front

A Robbie Keane brace took his recent run to eight goals in five league games to keep Spurs' European march on track.

The Irishman got the opener after just 12 minutes, tapping in after good work by Dimitar Berbatov, before the latter volleyed the second home from 25 yards.

Mark Viduka headed in to reduce Boro's deficit and Paul Robinson somehow kept Spurs ahead with two magnificent stops.

Keane's second from Lennon's cut-back proved crucial as Spurs hung on despite Emmanuel Pogatetz's consolation header.

Interview: Tottenham boss Martin Jol

Interview: Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate

It was another barn-storming game involving Tottenham, who now boast a top- flight aggregate of 104 goals (52 for, 52 against) in Premiership games this season.

After a series of near-misses in the cup competitions this season, the Londoners are desperate to secure a top-seven finish to salvage their season.

But there are easier places to go than the Riverside, especially if, like Spurs, you have failed to win there in eight attempts.

606: DEBATE

Your views on the match

However, it quickly became evident that the match would be decided on which front pairing fared the better - and Berbatov and Keane were peerless in the first hour.

The former, fresh from being named in the Premiership team of the year, was the visitors' main tormentor, and he should have opened the scoring when he shot tamely with the goal at his mercy from 20 yards.

Spurs did not have to wait long for the goal, though, and once again Berbatov was the key.

The Bulgarian beat Emmanuel Pogatetz in the air, turned inside the box and laid the ball perfectly to Keane who side-footed home with aplomb.

With both sides guilty of surrendering possession, the match quickly degenerated into a scrappy affair.

Boro were largely toothless in attack in the first half, though Viduka and Yakubu linked up well just before half time when the former rattled the outside of the post with an instinctive effort.

Dimitar Berbatov cracks home the winner from 25 yards

But Spurs were comfortable otherwise - so much so that Lee Cattermole was sacrificed just 40 minutes into the match for Adam Johnson as Gareth Southgate attempted to target makeshift left-back Ricardo Rocha.

It mattered little 90 seconds into the second half, though, when Hossam Ghaly - preferred to the out-of-form Aaron Lennon - lobbed to Berbatov, who swivelled and curled in on the volley from 25 yards.

It was a touch of class from the 26-year-old, and Keane should have wrapped things up on the hour when he dinked over Schwarzer but wide from Steed Malbranque's through-ball.

While there were just two goals in it, Boro had a chance - and Viduka almost reduced the deficit when he turned in the box brilliantly and drilled over from the angle.

It was 1-2 minutes later, though, Stewart Downing's switch to the right proving inspired as he crossed for Viduka to head home unmarked.

Suddenly the hosts were full of belief and only a stunning save from Robinson preserved Spurs' lead when he beat away a Viduka effort from point-blank range soon after.

The England number one was again Spurs' saviour 10 minutes from time when he denied a Viduka curler at full stretch, with the visitors living purely on their nerves.

Unbelievably, with Boro enjoying their best spell of the match by a distance, Spurs broke away to seal it, substitute Lennon cutting inside Pogatetz and pulling back for Keane to smash into the roof of the net.

Pogatetz headed in from Downing's corner late on to again make the most of Spurs' frailty on set-pieces, but the visitors held on to mark Martin Jol's 100th Premiership match in charge with a crucial win.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate:

"The first 45 minutes was very frustrating. We let them play and they punished us.

"However, we finally stirred ourselves after we scored and only an outstanding save from Paul Robinson kept Spurs in front.

"It's a disappointing result and it means our aim, first and foremost, for the rest of the season is to get a point that will ensure our place in the Premiership next season."

Tottenham manager Martin Jol:"We made it very difficult for ourselves once again and Robinson has saved us with some unbelievable saves. But that is why he is Paul Robinson, because he does that.

"We needed a win and, with the way the other results went against us, you could say it was a must-win, so I am pleased tonight.

"Berbatov and Keane both have 21 goals this season, and Jermain Defoe has goals as well, so I am very happy with my strikers. No other club in the country can boast a front three like that I don't think."

[markr]

LEDS ON VITAL VICTORY

Ledley King believes securing victory up at Middlesbrough last weekend was vital ahead of our three-game week that begins against Charlton on Monday.

Even though we currently sit ninth in the pecking order, we are just two points adrift of fifth place with a game in hand - which comes when Blackburn visit the Lane on Thursday. The season concludes when Manchester City arrive in N17 on Sunday.

"It was a tough day, a big game for us and we knew that beforehand," said Leds of our Saturday at the Riverside. "The preparation leading up to the game was good, everyone was focused and the mood in the changing room was right. We all had a good feeling and knew the importance of the game.

"I thought we went out there and played a mature game, we played with our heads and did the right things to make sure we got the points."

Our chances of doing so, Ledley believes, will be increased if we can shackle the threat of Darren Bent - the spearhead of the Charlton attack.

"Darren is a good player and I've played alongside him with the England squad and have seen his qualities close up. I've also played against him and he is a player who is always looking to get in behind defences. Once he does that he is a very good finisher.

"He is one we always look out for and if we can keep him quiet it will improve our chances of winning the game."

[markr]

TEEMU TARGETS MAXIMUM

Teemu Tainio is targeting a nine-point return from our final week triple-header which begins on Monday when we travel to Charlton.

The maths are simple - win all three games and fifth place in the Premiership table would be secured for the second season in row and Teemu explained that this is naturally the aim.

"Of course we want the maximum, but the main thing is getting into the UEFA Cup," said the Finn. "If we win our last three games we will finish fifth so it will be an interesting week. What we have to do is win the games."

It will be an unusual visit to the Valley as in recent seasons Charlton have either been flying high or safe in the Premiership when we have made the trip.

"They always seemed to be pretty comfortable in the middle of the table so I am surprised and then again not surprised," said Teemu of their current position. "Where you are in the league is where you deserve to be and they haven't had a good season.

"It is true you have to be ready for every season, look at West Ham last year when they had a great season and reached the FA Cup final. This season they have had problems.

"Charlton could still be fighting for survival on Monday so it will be a tough game and we want the points as much as them."

[soihok]

For the sake of not looking crap.

Please do a good job on Charlton-under-dog on Monday.

this post has nothing to do with Sheffield United what so ever.

[keddy]

For the sake of not looking crap.

Please do a good job on Charlton-under-dog on Monday.

this post has nothing to do with Sheffield United what so ever.

Yup, Good Luck You owe us after making too much money on that Carrick deal, we did turn the Gooners over at their place, we did give you that last goal at our place and we promise not to put mouse droppings in the lasagne next time you're going for the 4th spot in the champions league from the real Uniteds, Sheffield and of course WHU

[chonabot]

Charlton 0-2 Tottenham

By John Sinnott

Berbatov scored 22 goals for Spurs this season

Goals from Dimitar Berbatov and Jermain Defoe condemned Charlton to relegation.

Charlton had needed to win to have any chance of staying up, but got off to the worst possible start after Berbatov broke clear and curled the ball home.

Charlton huffed and puffed and showed plenty of commitment, but struggled to test Spurs goalkeeper Paul Robinson.

Alex Song missed a header and Darren Bent went close with a shot, but in stoppage time former Charlton player Defoe lashed in a second for Spurs.

The win moved Spurs into sixth place in their quest for a Uefa Cup place, while Charlton's defeat also ensured Fulham will be in the Premiership next season.

The touch Berbatov took to leave Talal El Karkouri trailing in his wake was almost as eye-catching as his finish.

606: DEBATE

Give your thoughts on the match

The Spurs striker used the deftest of flicks to guide the ball to the right of El Karkouri, while Berbatov spun to the left of the Charlton defender.

The Bulgarian bore down into the penalty area and used his body strength to get the better of the chasing El Karkouri before curling the ball past Scott Carson.

Early in the second half Carson had to get down quickly to push away a diagonal shot from Berbatov after the Bulgarian swapped passes with Aaron Lennon.

Equally impressive for Spurs was Berbatov's attacking partner Robbie Keane - the two forwards are the joint winners of the April player of the month award - whose link-up play was exemplary.

Shorn of meaningful possession, Charlton took their time to get into the game after Berbatov scored but towards the end of the first half the home side began to threaten.

Zheng-Zhi had an effort blocked, Song might have done better with a header, while Darren Bent lashed a shot past the post.

With 20 minutes to go Charlton manager Alan Pardew introduced Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and youngster Lloyd Sam in an effort to rescue the game.

With five minutes remaining Matt Holland managed to work some space following a corner but the Spurs defence quickly closed him down to block his shot.

But those changes failed to alter the course of the game and Defoe extended Spurs' lead with a superb shot from just outside the box.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Charlton: Carson, Young, El Karkouri, Diawara, Hreidarsson, Zheng (Hughes 84), Holland, Song Billong (Sam 71), Ambrose, Marcus Bent (Hasselbaink 71), Darren Bent.

Subs Not Used: Randolph, Bougherra.

Tottenham: Robinson, Chimbonda, Dawson, King, Rocha (Gardner 46), Lennon (Malbranque 60), Zokora, Jenas, Tainio, Keane (Defoe 84), Berbatov.

Subs Not Used: Cerny, Huddlestone.

Goals: Berbatov 7, Defoe 90.

Att: 26,339.

Ref: G Poll (Hertfordshire).

[Sunderland]

How much do you want for that young lad ... what's his name ... mmmmm ... something Keane ... the Irish lad ... Robbie Keane, is it?

How about an exchange deal: Tommy Miller and a new set of training tops?

[muckypups]

Berbatov to stay at Tottenham..? From The Guardian..:

Berbatov pledges future to Spurs

Dimitar Berbatov is poised to kill off the possibility of a lucrative move to Manchester United this summer by pledging his future to Tottenham Hotspur for at least another year.

The Bulgarian, who has had an impressive first season in the Premiership with 22 goals in all competitions, is believed to be high on Sir Alex Ferguson's wanted list. Tottenham, though, are adamant Berbatov is not for sale and the 26-year-old has made it clear he is not angling for a move to the new champions or Chelsea, who have also been linked with the striker.

The player's agent, Emil Dantchev, said last month that Berbatov would remain at White Hart Lane for a minimum of another season and yesterday confirmed that was still the player's position. "Nothing has changed - except for the number of goals that he has scored," he said. "He is very happy with Tottenham."

Berbatov cost £10.9m from Bayer Leverkusen and his performances in both the Premiership and the Uefa Cup have been noted across the Continent.

Tottenham's ambition was questioned in some quarters when Michael Carrick was sold to United for £18.6m last year but the head coach, Martin Jol, has said there are "no circumstances" under which Berbatov would have to be sold. Jol is adamant that the beat of the Bulgarian, who has been named in the Premiership's team of the year, is yet to come. "He would be in my team of the year, but there is a lot of room for improvement," he said. "He's not surprised me, but the only thing is how they gel with other players when they come from a different country. After a couple of weeks, he was always on fire.

"I think Dimitar can score 20 in the Premiership because there are players doing that and I think he is as talented as any other player. In Germany, he scored on average over 20 goals and that is a good league." Berbatov has hit 12 goals in the Premiership.

Stand by for a bout of ostentatious badge kissing.. and then a nifty transfer..

[scousemouse]

so how confident are all you yid's of keeping the boy berbatov for another season !!!!!...... .

The admiring eyes of Manchester and London are growing bigger.

Jol didnt help things by slapping a 30 million price tag on him , as if 30 million will stop the big guns.

[chonabot]

so how confident are all you yid's of keeping the boy berbatov for another season !!!!!...... .

The admiring eyes of Manchester and London are growing bigger.

Jol didnt help things by slapping a 30 million price tag on him , as if 30 million will stop the big guns.

Well I hope he stays another year, he's by far the best transfer of 2006. But if we don't build a team around him that's capable of top 4 and a UEFA cup he will be daft not to go to the big guns.

It would be great to see how good he could be in a team with players of similar talents.

[scousemouse]

so how confident are all you yid's of keeping the boy berbatov for another season !!!!!...... .

The admiring eyes of Manchester and London are growing bigger.

Jol didnt help things by slapping a 30 million price tag on him , as if 30 million will stop the big guns.

Well I hope he stays another year, he's by far the best transfer of 2006. But if we don't build a team around him that's capable of top 4 and a UEFA cup he will be daft not to go to the big guns.

It would be great to see how good he could be in a team with players of similar talents.

If he stays in the premiership then I reckon sky's the limit for this boy.

Best thing to come out of Bulgaria since a well known striker and fiery charector by the name of Hristo Stoichkov , now he WAS a player , and if Berbatov keeps on the way he is going then who knows......?????.

p.s.... not many bulgarians have made it in the premiership , I can think of 1 , Berbatov .

They must still be feeling the effects of communism more than most .

[muckypups]

This Berbatov story has all the hallmarks of turning into a close season tug-of-war between half a dozen clubs.. Much to the delight of the sporting press no doubt. I'd love to see him at Old Trafford, but I expect Tottenham (Jol) will fight very hard to keep him..and of course.. it's only a matter of time before Real Madrid shuffle up to the trough and stick their noses in..

Most Wanted: The leading man who has lit up Lilywhite stage

Virtually unknown in Britain until last August, Dimitar Berbatov has dazzled in his debut season at White Hart Lane. But with a summer of big-money moves imminent, Spurs face a fight to keep their brilliant striker who is suddenly top of many shopping lists

No striker has lit up the Lilywhites quite like Dimitar Berbatov. No striker since Jürgen Klinsmann, that is. It's a comparison, however, that should lead to a shudder of apprehension for every Tottenham Hotspur supporter. After all, Klinsmann may have scored 21 league goals, the last player to do so for the club but, also, he stayed for just one season.

One more season appears to be the unspoken line with regards to Berbatov at present. His agent, Emil Dantchev, is frank about the fact that there is interest in the Bulgarian, who joined Spurs last summer after they agreed to pay Bayer Leverkusen the buy-out clause of £10.9m in his contract, although he does not want to discuss names. Clearly, however, those clubs are Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea, while Arsenal, who had tracked the 26-year-old while he was in Germany, will be resigned to the fact that it will be impossible to lure him across north London.

His impact on the Premiership has made him its most-sought-after player although his club has, rightly, bridled at the suggestion that as a consequence he is too good for them. Spurs have also refuted the accusation that they remain, in essence, a selling club. The prime evidence for that claim was the departure last summer of Michael Carrick to United for £18.6m. But, they argue, the circumstances were very different - not least because Carrick made clear, with his contract running down, that he would not be signing another one and that his heart was set on Old Trafford.

Berbatov, as yet, has made no such demands and Dantchev maintains he will not be doing so although he is delighted at the attention his client's performances have generated. Inevitably, it would now be in Spurs' interest to try and tie him down with an improved deal - he may at present be on only £22,000 a week, half what Robbie Keane earns - but although talks have taken place with the club's sporting director, Damien Comolli, Berbatov will not be rushed. He wants to keep his options open. Hence the promise, made privately, that he will remain for at least another year and then decide.

It is also important for Spurs to hold on to Berbatov for other reasons - not least because of the backlash they would face from the fans if he were sold. They have taken wholeheartedly to the elegant striker who has the air of someone who knows he is the team's main man and has the ability to carry that off.

There is another factor. Although no approach has formally been made, the club is aware that there are potential buyers out there - and potential buyers who have identified Berbatov and Aaron Lennon as the prime playing assets. With a stadium in need of redevelopment, and a new training ground to be built, the Spurs board know they need to talk up the value of their players if they are to wring out the high price they want to demand.

But that is for the future. For now other calculations are being made. A temptation for Spurs, who would want up to £25m for Berbatov, could be if a player-plus-cash deal is tabled. Chelsea would be in pole position to do this and it may be a method of transfer that would appeal, especially as the club's owner, Roman Abramovich, is not so willing to splash the cash as in previous years.

One cheeky suggestion could be for Chelsea to offer money plus Andrei Shevchenko for Berbatov - a deal that would delight manager Jose Mourinho but may not appeal to Abramovich or his Ukrainian striker.

Spurs would be sorely tempted if, however, a deal involved Arjen Robben, manager Martin Jol's favourite Premiership player, but it would be highly unlikely that he would move to White Hart Lane. If Robben leaves Chelsea he has made clear that he wants to go to Spain. Alternatively, Chelsea may try to off-load Claude Makelele.

As for United they would balk at the price Spurs would demand but may be able to add Louis Saha to the equation. Despite his maddening fragility the Frenchman is the kind of mobile, quick striker that Jol is eager to add to his squad. Liverpool, meanwhile, have toyed with the idea of a cash plus Peter Crouch deal, but appear to have realised that it will be difficult to make it happen even if they win the European Cup.

Another factor would be Jol's reaction. Berbatov is his player. Neither chairman Daniel Levy nor Comolli had a great part in the transfer, which is unusual at Spurs. It was also unusual in that Berbatov was signed in May 2006 and not later in the transfer window, and because Spurs did not have a prolonged period of haggling over the price. They simply triggered the clause although there was a flurry of panic that others would step in when The Independent revealed the deal that April.

"I picked him out," Jol confirms. "With Dimitar we spent a lot of time impressing him [about six months], talking to him and his agent and it helped. He could have changed his mind but didn't. Spurs were not late - other teams were. They started phoning him and he said 'no I'm going to Tottenham'." One of those teams, as Berbatov himself has revealed, was United. But by then he had agreed to move to Spurs while, another factor in his thinking, was where he would be in the pecking order as Sir Alex Ferguson had yet to dispose of Ruud van Nistelrooy.

Berbatov has been a spectacular success. After a long trawl which had seen Spurs rejected by Fernando Torres, Dirk Kuyt, Udinese's Vincenzo Iaquinta and Cristiano Lucarelli from Livorno, he has fitted in seamlessly. With 22 goals - half in the league - and probably just about as many assists, his value was confirmed when he was named as one of only three non-United players by the Professional Footballers Association in their team of the year. The other two were Steven Gerrard and Didier Drogba.

One of those who voted for him was Luke Young. "I put him in my team of the year," says the Charlton Athletic defender. "When we played at White Hart Lane it was a master class from him. We could not deal with him; he was everywhere and controlled the game. I remember Paul Robinson taking long kicks and he would bring it down on his chest and keep the ball." And Berbatov scored another virtuoso goal to condemn Charlton to relegation earlier this week.

Blessed with a wonderful touch and close control, allowing him to link play as well as provide a cutting edge, intelligent movement and deadly finishing, the only asset he lacks is blistering pace. Not that he is slow. At 6ft 2in he is also highly effective in the air. There is also another exciting factor. This is his first season in the Premiership and, as every manager points out, a striker usually has a more impressive second campaign after moving to this country from another league.

There are some concerns. Berbatov did not score his first goal away from the Lane until February and often does his most effective work in the first-half of games. Then there has been a perceptible frustration in his body language. He often stares at the turf or holds his hands out wide - not without justification - to his team-mates. He does appear, at times, to be playing on a different level from them.

The ambition for Spurs is to raise the rest of the squad to that level. For that they need him to stay. They do not want the sense of regret they felt back in 1995 when Klinsmann, armed with the player of the year award, left after just 10 months to move to Bayern Munich. He eventually returned, of course, for one last hurrah. But by then it was too late. And Tottenham have wasted enough time.

[markr]

TOTTENHAM V BLACKBURN 10th May 8pm 2am Thai time

Tottenham defender Ricardo Rocha is a concern after picking up an ankle injury in the win at Charlton.

Anthony Gardner came on at the Valley after recovering from a fractured leg, while Benoit Assou-Ekotto (knee) has been back in training and could play.

Blackburn midfielder David Dunn is doubtful with a thigh injury and has just a 50-50 chance of playing.

Zurab Khizanishvili remains out because of a knee problem alongside absentees Robbie Savage and Steven Reid.

A win tonight and it's europe next season! come on you spurs

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ENGALND B GAME

Six of our players - including fit-again Ledley King - have been named in Steve McClaren's England squad for the 'B' international against Albania on May 25.

Ledley steps back into the international arena for the first time this year after recovering from his foot problem and is joined by Paul Robinson, Michael Dawson, Jermaine Jenas, Aaron Lennon and Jermain Defoe. Of those players, only Michael is yet to win a full England cap - although he played in the last 'B' friendly against Belarus last year.

The friendly takes place at Burnley's Turf Moor on Friday May 25, kick-off 8pm.

Squad in full

Goalkeepers: Paul Robinson (Tottenham), Ben Foster (Manchester United, on loan at Watford).

Defenders: Phil Neville (Everton), Joleon Lescott (Everton), Michael Dawson (Tottenham), Ledley King (Tottenham), Gareth Barry (Aston Villa), Nicky Shorey (Reading).

Midfielders: Owen Hargreaves (Bayern Munich), Phil Jagielka (Sheffield United), Aaron Lennon (Tottenham), Kieron Dyer (Newcastle), Scott Parker (Newcastle), Jermaine Jenas (Tottenham), Stewart Downing (Middlesbrough), David Bentley (Blackburn).

Forwards: Michael Owen (Newcastle), Jermain Defoe (Tottenham), Alan Smith (Manchester United), David Nugent (Preston).

[markr]

ENGLAND B GAME

Six of our players - including fit-again Ledley King - have been named in Steve McClaren's England squad for the 'B' international against Albania on May 25.

Ledley steps back into the international arena for the first time this year after recovering from his foot problem and is joined by Paul Robinson, Michael Dawson, Jermaine Jenas, Aaron Lennon and Jermain Defoe. Of those players, only Michael is yet to win a full England cap - although he played in the last 'B' friendly against Belarus last year.

The friendly takes place at Burnley's Turf Moor on Friday May 25, kick-off 8pm.

Squad in full

Goalkeepers: Paul Robinson (Tottenham), Ben Foster (Manchester United, on loan at Watford).

Defenders: Phil Neville (Everton), Joleon Lescott (Everton), Michael Dawson (Tottenham), Ledley King (Tottenham), Gareth Barry (Aston Villa), Nicky Shorey (Reading).

Midfielders: Owen Hargreaves (Bayern Munich), Phil Jagielka (Sheffield United), Aaron Lennon (Tottenham), Kieron Dyer (Newcastle), Scott Parker (Newcastle), Jermaine Jenas (Tottenham), Stewart Downing (Middlesbrough), David Bentley (Blackburn).

Forwards: Michael Owen (Newcastle), Jermain Defoe (Tottenham), Alan Smith (Manchester United), David Nugent (Preston).

[markr]

STATS OF THE DAY

Tonight marks a few milestones at the Lane - including the 1,000th Premier League game to be shown live on Sky Sports.

1,000th game live on Sky Sports

Tonight’s game against Blackburn Rovers will be the 1,000th Premier League match to be shown live on Sky Sports.

The first was back on August 16, 1992, when former Spur Teddy Sheringham scored the only goal of the game for Nottingham Forest as they beat Liverpool.

Here are some interesting stats from the previous 999 games...

• Over 2,500 goals scored

• Over 70 own goals scored – Michael Duberry has scored the most to date with three. Ex-Spur Stephen Carr is the only player to score one for two clubs; Spurs v Boro in 1999-00 and Newcastle at Charlton in 2004-05.

• Thierry Henry is the top scorer with 52 goals.

• 6-0 is the biggest win and has been achieved three times by Manchester United, Chelsea and Fulham beating Bolton, Barnsley and Norwich respectively.

We have featured in 105 of those 999 games, winning 35, drawing 29 and losing 44. We have scored 146 goals and conceded 159.

Among the classic games in which we’ve been involved are the 4-1 win here against Manchester United on January 1, 1996; the 4-2 victory over Southampton in February, 1993, when we scored four times in five minutes; the 4-5 defeat to Arsenal two seasons ago and of course this season’s 4-3 win over West Ham at Upton Park.

One million mark at the Lane this season

It's another full house at the Lane tonight - and that means we'll topple the million mark for the season. We currently stand at 984,952 cumulatively for competitive games in 2006-07, so another 35,000-plus means we'll pass the 1,000,000.

250-up for JJ

Jermaine Jenas is due to make the 250th senior appearance of his club career tonight. He made his senior debut for Nottingham Forest against Wolverhampton Wanderers in an FA Cup tie on January 7, 2001. His current tally of 249 games comprises 33 for Forest, 151 for Newcastle United and 65 since joining us during August, 2005. To date he has played in 193 league games plus 56 in various cup competitons.

100 goals stats

Dimitar Berbatov's opener at Charlton was our 100th goal of the campaign. We last scored 100 or more goals in a season during 1986-87, netting 109 in 57 matches - 68 in 42 league games, 16 in 6 in the FA Cup, 25 in 9 in the League Cup. The closest we came to the century mark in Premiership years was 91 goals in 1994-95. Since the start of the 1980's also achieved 100 plus in 1983-84 (102) and 1984-85 (108).

[markr]

SLOW OFF THE MARK

Martin Jol pointed to a slow start that nearly proved costly after a 1-1 draw with Blackburn kept the team on course for a UEFA Cup return next season.

One point is now required from our final game of the season against Manchester City on Sunday, thanks to Jermain Defoe's second half leveller that cancelled out Benni McCarthy's opener for the visitors.

It was not a classic, but the boys took control after the hour mark and could have snatched victory if Robbie Keane's late shot had not come out off the inside of the post.

"I know we did not start well, we played on Monday so I tried to do something by bringing in Jermain Defoe because he is fresh and on fire, but we didn't get going with our flank play or in midfield with support to the strikers.

"You know the quality Blackburn have with Pedersen and his crosses and they scored from an excellent cross.

"But we've got a lot of character in the side and in the second half we came back at them and stretched them in midfield. We took a lot of risks, but that is what you have to do because, for me, it was about tonight and we wanted the three points to get into Europe for certain.

"Our crowd gave us a big lift as we had some tired players out there. They worked hard and all compliments to my team because we could have nicked it."

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DAWSON SIGNS NEW DEAL

The Club is delighted to announce that Michael Dawson has signed a further extension to his contract that will see him at White Hart Lane until 2012.

The 23-year-old England squad member has featured in an incredible all but one of our 58 games this season and recently attracted praise from manager Martin Jol, who commented that Michael has 'probably been my Player of the Season'.

Michael joined from Nottingham Forest in January 2005 and has so far made 95 appearances in our colours.

"Its really great that the Club has looked to reward me with a new contract," reacted Michael. "I still had four years left on my contract so this represents a further commitment on both my and the Club's behalf.

"We have got everything to play for as we head into our final game of the season. Our squad has settled so well. We've got a lot of different nationalities and our fair share of jokers, the team spirit is fantastic. You might think we are looking for a rest but actually we've all enjoyed the season so much that, in some ways, we are sad it is coming to an end."

In giving his reaction to securing the continued services of the Northallerton-born player, Martin Jol was quick to repeat his earlier uttered accolade.

"I am delighted that Michael has signed a further extension to his contract. He is exactly the kind of player that will be part of a bright future for our club. I've said it before and maybe there are other contenders as well, but he is my player of the season. I had a problem in the centre with Anthony Gardner and Ledley King being out, but Michael Dawson is always there and I think everybody recognises the honesty in his game."

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ROBBIES WINNING FINALE

Robbie Keane's thoughts turned immediately to our season finale on Sunday after being inches from securing our place in Europe on Thursday night.

The in-form striker was presented with a match-winning chance in the final moments of what proved a tough test against Blackburn Rovers at the Lane but having beaten keeper Brad Friedel all ends up, could only watch in agony as his effort cannoned back off the inside of the post.

That was the final chance as the match finished in a 1-1 draw. “It was disappointing,” said Robbie, who helped turn the game back in our favour after coming on as substitute on the hour with us trailing to Benni McCarthy’s first half header.

“We really wanted to win this game, especially as it was at home, but the important thing was that we didn't lose.

“In the first half we didn't play well but in the second half we played really well. Overall, we have to be happy with a point but we’re disappointed we didn't nick it with that chance at the end that hit the post.”

It was pointed out to our vice-captain that at least we’d go into the final match against Manchester City on Sunday (May 13, 3pm) in a positive frame of mind after that second half performance.

“We played brilliantly, had them on the back foot and that is full credit to the lads,” added Robbie, who was involved in the equaliser, threading a pass through to Dimitar Berbatov, whose shot was parried by Friedel only for Jermain Defoe to tap home.

“We have to make sure we finish it off now and cement a place in the UEFA Cup on Sunday.

“We wanted to do it against Blackburn, it wasn't to be, but even now 57 points could be enough if the results around us go our way. We won’t think about that though, we'll concentrate on what we have to do and try to get that win on Sunday.”

[muckypups]

From The Sun...so it must be true..

Dimi: I'll snub Utd and Blues

DIMITAR BERBATOV has given Alex Ferguson the news he was dreading by insisting he is staying at Tottenham.

The red-hot Bulgarian striker will snub a summer move to Fergie’s Manchester United and sign a new £45,000- a-week Spurs deal.

He said: “I am really happy that I made the choice to come here to Tottenham to work with the manager Martin Jol — he is a great man.

“I have said it many times, when you play good, when you score goals, especially here in England, everyone is watching you.

“Manchester, Chelsea they take an interest but I’m settled at Tottenham.”

United boss Fergie wanted to sign Berba last summer but Jol nipped in to bag the hitman from German outfit Bayer Leverkusen.

Berba’s new Spurs deal will double his wages — reward for scoring 22 goals this term.

Hossam Ghaly has survived the axe at Spurs after making a grovelling apology for his shirt-throwing shame.

The Egyptian midfielder was fined £40,000, two week’s wages, for his angry reaction to being substituted against Blackburn on Thursday.