Harry Redknapp is the 24th Manager Since ............

that day in 1984 when Chairman, Irving Scholar thought he had reached agreement with Alex Ferguson, the manager of Aberdeen, to take over at White Hart Lane.

The management merry-go-round continues at White Hart Lane.  After three and a half years (1327 days and 144 Premier League games), Harry Redknapp has been moved on and the search begins to find someone who will be able to take Spurs to the 'next level'.

Keith Burkinshaw 1984 UEFA Cup

In 1984, Keith Burkinshaw announced that he would be leaving Tottenham at the end of the season.  He went on to see Spurs win the UEFA Cup Final against Anderlecht in his final match in charge but the Chairman at the time had the task of finding a suitable replacement.

Irving Scholar writes in his book, 'Behind Closed Doors' (1992),

"So who could replace Keith? I had been talking to Alex Ferguson, then managing Aberdeen.  These conversations had reached a point of agreeing personal terms, and we shook hands on a deal.  However, he had second thoughts about the matter and decided not to accept my offer.

Ferguson would have been a good choice.  He had managed to break the Glasgow monopoly of Rangers and Celtic and had considerable European experience, having won the Cup Winners' Cup by beating Real Madrid in the Final a short time previously.  The way his teams played was also very important: whilst they were winning, they were also entertaining - a vital prerequisite for any Spurs side.  He was very intense and totally dedicated, something I found very appealing.  He also had a reputation for being a strict disciplinarian; it was a good combination for any manager.  Unfortunately, for Spurs, he had a father-son relationship with the Aberdeen Chairman, and I think, on reflection, he felt he would be letting him down if he left."

In 1986, Ferguson went to Manchester United and we know the rest.  It's interesting to read Scholar's criteria for a Tottenham manager - 'a winning side, playing entertaining football', 'considerable European experience' and 'intense and totally dedicated'.

Since 1984 when Scholar had that appointment to make, Spurs have had the following personnel in control of team affairs, although some were only in a caretaking capacity:

  Keith Burkinshaw (1984 UEFA Cup)

1984 Peter Shreeves

1986 David Pleat (1987 FA Cup Finalists)

1987 Trevor Hartley (Caretaker)

1987 Ossie Ardiles, Ray Clemence, Doug Livermore (Caretaker)

1987 Terry Venables (1991 FA Cup)

1991 Peter Shreeve

 1992 Doug Livermore and Ray Clemence (Terry Venables)

1993 Ossie Ardiles

1994 Steve Perryman (Caretaker)

1994 Gerry Francis

1997 Chris Hughton (Caretaker)

1997 Christian Gross

1998 David Pleat (Caretaker)

1998 George Graham (1999 Worthington Cup)

2001 David Pleat (Caretaker)

2001 Glenn Hoddle (2003 Worthington Cup Finalists)

2003 David Pleat (Caretaker)

2004 Jacques Santini

2004 Martin Jol

2007 Clive Allen, Alex Inglethorpe (Caretaker)

2007 Juande Ramos (2008 Carling Cup)

2008 Clive Allen, Alex Inglethorpe (Caretaker)

2008 Harry Redknapp (2009 Carling Cup Finalists)

Harry Redknapp is the 24th manager or management team, permanent or temporary, to have taken control of Spurs since that day in 1984 when Irving Scholar thought he had reached agreement with Alex Ferguson.  

If only Scholar's arrangement had been fulfilled twenty eight years ago, the history of Tottenham Hotspur might be somewhat different or perhaps Daniel Levy should consult Scholar to get his views on the current candidates or better still, does Scholar know a modern day 'Sir Alex Ferguson'.

 

It's Spurs: 1st January, 1985 - Spurs Take Highbury

On this day 27 years ago, Spurs took the short journey to Highbury and started the new year with a resounding victory over their near neighbours.

Happy New Year from Tottenham Spurs in History Blog

1st January, 1985

Arsenal 1 Tottenham Hotspur 2

Scorers:  Woodcock           Crooks, Falco

Team: Clemence; Stevens, Mabbutt, Roberts, Miller, Perryman, Chiedozie, Hoddle (Allen, C.) Galvin, Crooks, Falco.

Mark Falco

Spurs went into the game leading the 1st Division with 43 points from 22 matches while Arsenal were four points behind.  Also in the chasing pack were Everton, Liverpool and Manchester United.

Peter Shreeve had replaced Keith Burkinshaw as manager and Spurs had been top of the League for much of the first half of the season.

Arsenal dominated the first half at Highbury and took the lead through Tony Woodcock three minutes before half-time.  In the secdond half Spurs much greater determination and started to show the form that had seen them win four of their last five away games.  Captain, Steve Perryman led by example but on the hour it was Glenn Hoddle who demonstrated his magnificent skills as he played a long ball from deep in defence towards the Arsenal area.  It deceived defender and goalkeeper, allowing Garth Crooks to steal in and score his fifth goal in five games.

Tottenham continued to be more purposeful in their play and with seventeen minutes remaining, Tony Galvin passed to Mark Falco and his shot hit the back of the net.

Spurs started the new year with a win at Highbury and remained at the top of the 1st Division.  They didn't lose another away match for the rest of the season but poor home form saw Everton overtake them to win the title as Spurs slipped to third.

1st January, 1986

Roberts Takes out Nicholas at Highbury: Read More 

1st January, 1996 

Spurs 4 Manchester United 1: Read More 

They Played for Tottenham and Newcastle

Three players who have been among the most exciting to grace the white shirt of Tottenham were signed from Newcastle United.  Other players made the move from White Hart Lane to Newcastle while Ossie Ardiles has been manager of both clubs and Keith Burkinshaw was a coach at St James Park before arriving at Spurs.

Chris Waddle, Paul Gascoigne and David Ginola

If asked to name three of the most graceful and exciting players to play for Tottenham and these three would be among the first players mentioned.  All three moved to White Hart Lane and had an immense impact on the club.

Chris Waddle signed for Spurs in July, 1985 for a fee of £590,000.  He made 138 League appearances and scored 33 goals.  He made an immediate impression by scoring twice on his debut on the opening day of the season in a 4 - 0 home win over Watford.  He established himself in the England team during his time with Spurs and in 1986 - 87 he was part of the exciting team that David Pleat managed to 3rd in the League and to the FA Cup Final.  Spurs also reached the semi-finals of the League Cup.  In that team Clive Allen scored 49 goals in all competitions and Waddle was a vital part of the 5-man midfield which supplied their prolific striker.

By the summer of 1989, Terry Venables had taken over as Spurs manager and was building an exciting team with Paul Gascoigne and newly signed Gary Lineker to play with Waddle.  It was looking very exciting for Spurs fans but unbeknown to them Spurs' financial position was precarious and when Olympique Marseilles made an offer of £4.5 million for waddle it was too good an offer for both player and club to turn down.  To the great disappointment of supporters, Waddle went to France where he won the French title in each of his three years there and also reached a European Cup Final.  Spurs fans still lament at the missed opportunity of having the three England internationals, Waddle, Gascoigne and Lineker, playing in the white of Tottenham.

When he returned to England, Tottenham were in financial distress and Waddle joined Sheffield Wednesday.

Chris Waddle at Tottenham: 138 Lge App. 33 goals.  36 Cup App. 9 goals. 

Paul Gascoigne was an immense talent who brought exhuberance and an amazing talent to the football field.  He joined Spurs from Newcastle for a then record fee of £2 million, turning his back on Sir Alex Ferguson's Manchester United.  Under Terry Venables he blossomed into the best footballer in England and a regular England international.  He helped Spurs finish third in the League in 1989 - 90 and at that summer's World Cup in Italy, the whole world became aware of his precocious talent as England reached the semi-finals.

The following season he lit up English football as crowds flocked to see the World Cup heroes, Lineker and Gascoigne.  Not put off by the publicity he raised his game and in the second half of the season, almost single-handedly took Spurs to the FA Cup Final at Wembley.  That season he scored 19 League and Cup goals.  He scored seven in the League including an amazing hat-trick against Derby County with Peter Shilton in goal and six in both Cup competitions.

Spurs financial standing was in a critical position and there was much doom and gloom surrounding the club as the banks threatened to call in their debts and put Tottenham Hotspur out of existence.  Against this uncertain background the FA Cup started in January but Gascoigne with outstanding performances and goals to match managed to get Spurs past Portsmouth, Oxford United and Notts County, scoring five goals, to reach a semi-final at Wembley against north-London neighbours, Arsenal.

During the Cup run, Gascoigne had been playing with an operation that required surgery.  This was arranged for immediately after the 6th Round tie, in the hope that he would be fit for the semi-final.  Gascoigne recovered in time and took his place in the team at Wembley.  He was pumped up for that match against opponents who were looking to win the League and Cup 'double'.  Within five minutes he had given Spurs the lead with a free-kick from forty yards.  For an hour he was everywhere and involved in everything that was good for Spurs as they went on to win 3 - 1 and the Final against Nottingham Forest.

In the build up to the Final, Gascoigne became part of the financial solution to rescue Spurs.  A transfer was agreed for him to go to Lazio in Italy for £8.5million but in the Final an over excited Gascoigne made a rash tackle and damaged the cruciate ligaments in his knee.  He was carried off the Wembley pitch on a stretcher and went straight to hospital.  A goal down Spurs re-organised, re-grouped and won 2 -1 in extra time.

Gascoigne was out of football for a year but the deal with Lazio was re-negotiated and in July, 1991 he signed for £5.5 million.  He made 92 League appearances for Tottenham and scored 19 goals.  Gascoigne played for a number of different clubs but never again reached the level of performance he showed with Tottenham in those first three seasons.  His life has been blighted with many problems but he is held close to the hearts of every Spurs fan and it is to be hoped that he will find a purpose in his life and avoid the pitfalls that have so hindered him in the past.

Paul Gascoigne at Tottenham: 92 Lge App. 19 goals.  19 Cup App. 14 goals.

David Ginola was signed by Gerry Francis in the summer of 1997 for £2.5 million.  He was a great favourite on Tyneside and soon became a member of that elite group of players for whom spectators would willingly pay the entrance fee to see them perform at White Hart Lane.  He brought excitement and flair to the rather workman-like team that Francis had produced and his thrilling runs down the left wing, along with his cut-ins to strike at goal stay long in the memory of Tottenham fans as he gained hero status at the club.

Ginola arrived with Les Ferdinand, also signed from Newcastle, to provide the crosses for Ferdinand to score the goals but in his time at White Hart Lane he also added a versatility to his game by playing as a second striker or dropping back into midfield.  Within months of his arrival at Spurs, Francis was replaced by Christian Gross and the team struggled through the season to avoid relegation.  Ginola contributed to their survival with both flair and hard-work and while Jurgen Klinsmann received many of the plaudits it was Ginola who did much to preserve their status.  In the crucial success at Wimbledon, Klinsmann scored four goals but it was the play of Ginola which destroyed the dons defence and supplied the German with the goal scoring opportunities.  That day David Ginola was simply unplayable.

After the departure of Gross, the arrival of George Graham led many to believe that Ginola would be the first player sacrificed by the new manager in his efforts to produce an effective, hard-working team.  However, Ginola probably produced some of his best football at Spurs under Graham and his performances and goals took Spurs to Worthington Cup Final success and the FA Cup semi-finals in 1998 - 99. 

The FA Cup 5th Round tie against Leeds United is memorable for the quality of the goals that Spurs scored in the replay at White Hart Lane. A goal from Tim Sherwood had earned Spurs the replay but Darren Anderton and David Ginola scored two goals of outstanding quality to take Spurs into the quarter finals. Another amazing strike from Ginola which went narrowly past is equally remembered for the reaction of George Graham and the Spurs’ bench as they leapt to their feet in celebration, thinking that it was a goal.

The 6th Round draw took Spurs to Barnsley where they had lost in a 5th Round Replay twelve months earlier but on this occasion it produced a scintillating performance and a wonder goal from Ginola.  An inspirational run down the left from Ginola saw him leaving defenders floundering behind him so he cut in on goal to strike the ball past a bemused keeper.  This was sufficient to overcome the side that had suffered relegation at the end of the previous season.

His performances that season saw Ginola win both the PFA and the Football Writers Player of the Year awards.  In July, 2000 he reluctantly signed for Aston Villa for £3 million, neither the player nor supporters wanted him to go.

His time at Tottenham may have been short, three years, but the memories that David Ginola created are long lasting and he still has an affinity with the club and the supporters.

David Ginola at Tottenham: 100 Lge App. 13 Goals.  26 Cup/European App. 9 goals.

Others have also played for both clubs but none can compare to the Ginola, Gascoigne or Waddle:

Les Ferdinand the current striker coach at Tottenham joined in the summer of 1997 for £6 million and in five and a half seasons made 118 appearances, scoring 33 goals.  Injuries affected him badly during his first three seasons at the club when he only managed 12 goals.  He was part of the teams which reached the League cup Finals of 1999 and 2002.  He had his best period at the club in the third and fourth seasons when he scored 25 League and Cup goals but in the 2002 Final against Blackburn Rovers at Cardiff he was thwarted on three occasions by the Rovers goalkeeper, Brad Friedel, as the trophy headed north.  In January, 2003 he was transferred to West Ham United and scored his first goal for his new club against Spurs.

Stephen Carr was transferred to Newcastle in 2004 after thirteen seasons at Tottenham.  He came through the youth system at White Hart Lane and established himself as an important member of the team, attacking from the right and scoring vital goals.  he was a member of the 1999 Worthington Cup winning team and a full international for the Republic of Ireland.  In total he made 226 appearances, scoring 7 goals.  Injury hindered him and he was out for over eighteen months and on his return he had lost some of the impetus he had previously had and as the team struggled he looked for a new challenge in the north east.  He departed saying that he was moving to ' a bigger club' which infuriated Tottenham supporters who had previously idolised him before tiring of his seemimg lack of interest.

The Managers:

Ossie Ardiles managed Newcastle United from 1991 for a year but it was not a successful time for him as the club struggled against relegation from the 2nd Division.  In 1993, after a successful time at west Bromwich he was appointed manager of Tottenham by Alan Sugar.  the chairman was trying to appease irate fans who were displeased at the departure of Terry Venables.  It was difficult for Ardiles to take over in such circumstances and while supporters enjoyed his attacking team which included Jurgen Klinsmann, Teddy Sheringham, Nicky Barmby, Darren Anderton and Ille Dimitrescu, the team lacked consistency and he was sacked in October, 1994.  Although as a manager Ardiles was not a success, he is still remembered for his successful time as a player at Tottenham.

Keith Burkinshaw arrived at Tottenham from Newcastle to work as 1st Team coach under Terry Neill.  On Neill's departure in the summer of 1976, he was appointed manager and although the club suffered relegation at the end of his first season in charge, the directors decided to give him another chance and he built the successful team of the early 1980s which included Ardiles, Ricky Villa, Graham Roberts, Steve Perryman and Glenn Hoddle.  That team won the FA Cup in 1981 and 1982 and the UEFA Cup in 1984.

Other players who have played for both clubs are Garry Brady, Jim Iley, Mark Stimson, Ruel Fox and Kevin Scott.

Tottenham's Joy of Winning the Cup 2 (1981)

Thursday, 14th May, 1981 marks the night Ricky Villa became a Tottenham 'legend'.  He came back from the disappointment of a poor performance and being substituted in the first game the previous Saturday, to score twice, the winner being one of the best goals ever seen at Wembley Stadium.

1981 FA Cup Final (Replay)
Tottenham Hotspur 3 Manchester City 2

Ricky Villa's Wonder Goal Wins Cup for Spurs!

Ricky Villa lifts FA Cup

The 1981 - 82 season had been just another step in Tottenham's endeavours to re-establish themselves as one of the top clubs in the country.  Keith Burkinshaw had slowly brought together a group of players who were capable of playing football in the style associated with Spurs.  After the club's relegation in 1976 - 77 and promotion the following season it had taken time  for the team to blend together together and in the League Tottenham were only to finish the season in 10th position.

However, from early January and the 3rd Round of the FA Cup the players grew in confidence and belief in themselves that they progressed to Wembley for the 100th FA Cup Final.  That small step during the 1980 - 81 season had turned into a massive stride forward for the manager, the players and the club as they went on to enjoy more success in the coming years.

1981 FA Cup Final Replay (from youtube)

Road to Wembley:
3rd Round: v Queen's Park Rangers (a) Draw 0 - 0
Replay: v Queen's Park Rangers (h) Won 3 - 1  Galvin, Hoddle, Crooks
Happy to leave Loftus Road with a draw against 2nd Division QPR, Spurs ensured their progress to the next round with a comfortable win at White Hart Lane.  Ricky Villa missed the home game through an injury sustained in the first game.

4th Round: v Hull City (h) Won 2 - 0  Archibald, Crooks
A visit from another 2nd Division side but the two strikers signed the previous summer scored the goals required to take Spurs into the 5th Round.

5th Round: v Coventry City (h) Won 3 - 1 Hughton, Ardiles, Archibald
Another home tie but against 1st Division opposition who were dismissed and Spurs supporters started to consider the possibility of the Cup returning to White Hart Lane as the year did end in '1'.

6th Round: v Exeter City (h) Won 2 - 0 Robertts, Miller

The draw once again proved favourable for Tottenham with a home game against the last lower League team left in the competition.  However, Exeter proved more difficult than had been expected bur two goals from central defensive partners Paul Miller and Graham Roberts took Spurs to the semi-finals for the first time since 1967.

Semi-Final: v Wolverhampton Wanderers (Hillsborough) Draw 2 - 2 (aet) Archibald, Hoddle
Ricky Villa returned from injury to start his first game since the 3rd Round.  Steve Archibald gave Spurs an early lead only for Wolves to draw level.  Before half-time Spurs went ahead through Glenn Hoddle and retained their lead until going into the final minutes when Wolves were awarded a controversial penalty.  Hoddle was penalised for a tackle which took place outside the penalty area.  Wolves scored from the spot taking the game went into extra time but neither team could settle the tie so requiring a replay.

Replay: v Wolverhampton Wanderers (Highbury) Won 3 - 0 Crooks (2), Villa
Tottenham took over Highbury and Garth Crooks scored twice with the third coming from Ricky Villa - a fierce drive following a run from halfway.

FA Cup Final: v Manchester City (Wembley) Draw 1 - 1 (aet) Hutchinson (og)
In a game that was rather dour, Manchester City's non-stop commitment and effort denied Tottenham and they took the lead through Tommy Hutchinson after half an hour.  It was a disappointing display from Spurs who couldn't get their game going and with twenty minutes remaining Ricky Villa was substituted.  The lasting memory is of the Argentine forlornly and slowly making his way past the Wembley stands to the dressing room - dejected and disappointed with his contribution to the game.  However, eleven minutes from time, good fortune favoured Tottenham.  They were awarded a free-kick on the edge of the penalty area and when Hoddle struck it, Hutchinson in trying to defend it only succeeded in deflecting it into his own goal.  Tottenham had been given a second chance.

Replay: v Manchester City (Wembley) Won 3 - 2 Villa (2), Crooks

For the replay, manager, Keith Burkinshaw, made a brave decision to include Ricky Villa as many had expected him to be dropped after his poor display on the Saturday.  However, having been given a reprieve, Villa immediately set about proving the manager correct by scoring the opening goal after eight minutes, a good strike as the ball fell to him in the penalty area.  The lead was short lived as three minutes later City equalised with a well struck shot from the edge of the box.  In a game that was much more open than the first match, City went ahead with a penalty early in the second half.  Tottenham battled on and equalised with a goal from Garth Crooks.  Level with twenty minutes remaining either team could have won but seven minutes later, Tony Galvin made a short pass to Ricky Villa wide on the left just inside City's half.  Villa set off on a run that took him past the City defenders and on into the penalty.  He continued his mazy dribble with team mates waiting for a pass, until finally getting past the last defender he placed the ball beyond the despairing keeper to score the winning goal.

That wonder goal not only won the FA Cup for Spurs for the sixth time but it turned Ricky Villa into an instant Tottenham legend and provided supporters with a moment in their lives that they will never forget, whether having been at Wembley or simply watching on television.  The joy of winning the Cup for Tottenham.
Team: Aleksic; Perryman, Roberts, Miller, Hughton; Ardiles, Hoddle, Villa, Galvin; Archibald, Crooks. Sub: Brooke (unused)

Ricky Villa Cup Hero

Ricky and Ossie Celebrate FA Cup win

Ricky Villa had arrived at Tottenham in the summer of 1978 with fellow Argentine, Oswaldo Ardiles, having helped their country win the World Cup.  Spurs had just won promotion from the 2nd Division after one season out of top flight football.  The news of their arrival caused great excitement not just at Tottenham but in English football in general as grounds were packed to see the two World Cup winners.  However, the reality was that Spurs were finding it difficult back in the 1st Division and the two new players needed time to adjust to English football.  In time Ardiles settled into the team but it was more difficult for Villa who was missing his home country and on occasions struggled with injury.  The manager struggled to find a suitable position for his new player who was not guaranteed a start in every game whereas Ardiles had quickly become an influential member of the team.  However, by the start of the Cup winning season, Villa had become a regular in midfield but injury in the first game of the Cup campaign saw Villa missing until the semi-finals.  What a contribution he made to the drama and excitement of the FA Cup in those four games which led to Tottenham enjoying a period of success not seen since the days of Bill Nicholson.

Spurs' Summer Expectations Shattered Once Again.

Ardiles - World Cup Winner

The early summer expectations of a World Cup that would throw up a host of foreign players who would enhance the Premier League were quickly dashed as the realisation dawned very early in the competition that South Africa 2010 was a rather poor and disappointing vintage to offer to the world.  Tottenham Hotspur have benefitted in the past from World Cup signings - they set high standards when Keith Burkinshaw returned to Argentina to sign World Cup winners, Ossie Ardiles and Ricky Villa.  In 1984 Alan Sugar pulled a rabbit out of the hat with the unexpected signing of Germany's Jurgen Klinsmann but on other occasions the stars of the World Cup have disappointed when faced with the rigours of English football.  This year there were few who did themselves much good in the shop window of the World Cup.

Every summer Spurs fans hope for an early resolution to all transfer negotiations as the manager, with the Chairman's assistance, endeavours to strengthen the Tottenham team for the following season.  The reasoning being that on the resumption of training all the new players will be in place and the work of preparing for the new season can commence in earnest.  However, sadly, once again, this has proved to be a forlorn and false hope as, to date, no new signings have appeared at White Hart Lane.  The only signing of note has been the acquisition of the young Brazilian midfield player, Sandro, but he remains in his homeland and is not expected to be available until September. 

The rumour mill has once again been in full swing with Spurs centre field for every conceivable target but no-one has signed on the dotted line and held up the lilywhite shirt at White Hart Lane.

For many years as Spurs have chased possible transfer targets, the lack of first, European football, and then Champions League football has always been held up as a reason why players have been reluctant to commit themselves to Spurs.  But now with Champions League football beckoning, players still show a reluctance to come to Tottenham.  In past years all we could do was watch as our star players went off to pastures new to fulfill their dreams of playing for the top clubs in the top competitions - Sol Campbell deserted Tottenham for our closest rivals, Arsenal, Teddy Sheringham, Michael Carrick and Dimitar Berbatov couldn't wait to get to Old Trafford while Robbie Keane had to sign for his boyhood team, Liverpool.  Spurs couldn't offer those players the opportunity to play at the highest level so there was nothing the club could do but release them with their best wishes and accept the transfer fees to swell the coffers while we, the fans, felt betrayed and disconsolate.  However, now things have changed, Spurs have access to the Champions League while Liverpool are consigned to the Europa League, that should make a difference.  But No - Spurs are still struggling to make those important signings while Liverpool have managed to hold on to their stars - Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres and have persuaded Joe Cole to move north to Anfield rather than move to Tottenham.  So as Manchester City and Liverpool have proved, players aren't just interested in the playing opportunities, they're very interested in the money on offer and will go to wherever they get the best salary.  Perhaps, Mr Levy will have to reconsider his financial restrictions where transfer fees and salaries are concerned if Tottenham Hotspur are going to become one of the big players in the Premier League as well as in Europe.  No-one wants Spurs to spend foolishly or offer extravagant salaries but to achieve greatness there will have to be a loosening of the purse strings to attract quality players to the club.

With less than three weeks remaining of this very quiet transfer window, it is to be hoped that any signings will improve the quality of the team and not just be a signing for the sake of it - in the past Spurs have suffered through Mr Levy's desire to shop at 'last-minute.com'.  Late, hasty purchases rarely achieve great success.  Spurs need better than that if they are to maintain the progress achieved by Harry Redknapp in the past two years.

Spurs in History - 16th August

16th August, 1980

Spurs 2 Nottingham Forest 0 (1st Division)

The opening day of the season with the usual high expectations. For the previous two seasons Spurs were short of a goal scorer but during the summer Keith Burkinshaw signed two players in an attempt to resolve this problem.

Steve Archibald was signed from Aberdeen and Garth Crooks came from Stoke City and a very successful partnership it was to prove, setting Spurs on the way to further success. Both made their debuts in this game and Crooks scored the second goal, Hoddle having given Spurs the lead with a penalty.

Archibald scored in the next game, Crooks scored twice and another in his third game. The team then hit a difficult spell not scoring for the next four games but they had shown their worth.

Spurs in History - 23rd July

23rd July, 1991

Peter Shreeves Returns as Manager

Tottenham Hotspur announced that Peter Shreeves would be promoted from chief coach to team manager, reporting to Terry Venables.

This would be Shreeves second spell in charge of the first team having been promoted to that position following the resignation of Keith Burkinshaw in 1984 when he had two seasons in charge before being sacked in 1986.

Terry Venables in his role as Chief Executive was planning to spend less time with the team and more on the running of the business side of the club.

Time was to prove that both decisions were wrong, as Shreeves held the role for only a year and Venables was later removed from his executive role by Alan Sugar.

Spurs in History - 14th July

Keith Burkinshaw, Spurs' second most successful manager, with new signings Ossie and Ricky

14th July, 1976

Spurs were looking for a new manager. Less than two years after replacing Bill Nicholson, Terry Neill resigned. It was reported that he had fallen out with the directors during the close season tour to Australia.

After deliberating for three weeks, not long by today’s standards, the appointment of a new manager was announced. Keith Burkinshaw who had worked under Neill at White Hart Lane was appointed as his replacement.

After a difficult opening season in which Spurs were relegated from the old 1st Division, Burkinshaw showed his worth and became a very successful manager at Spurs. He brought the club back to the top flight at the first attempt finishing third in the 2nd Division, in a very close contest.

Then following a summer extravaganza when he signed Ossie Ardiles and Ricky Villa from World Champions, Argentina, the club took a few seasons to establish themselves in the 1st Division.

Burkinshaw brought success back to White Hart Lane with successive FA Cup wins in 1981 and 1982 and a UEFA Cup success in 1984, Burkinshaw's final game in charge. He had become the club's second most successful manager, after Bill Nicholson.

Concerned about the outside influences and pressures that were coming into football, Burkinshaw resigned, with the comment, 'There used to be a football club over there...'

Neill took up the vacant post at Arsenal, no surprise there then.

Spurs in History - 12th July

12th July, 1956

Spurs' Legend - Tony Galvin

This date marks the birthday of Tony Galvin who came to Spurs from non-league Goole Town in January, 1978 for a fee of £30,000.

Galvin came to professional football late as he had completed a degree in Russian Studies and also a teacher Training course before signing for Spurs. He took time to make an impact having made his debut in a 0-3 defeat at home to Manchester City in February, 1979.

That would have been enough to end the hopes of many a player and although it was his only appearance of that season and he only made a few appearances at the end of the next season, at the beginning of January, 1981 he was given an opportunity to establish himself in the team and was an ever present in the team that went on to win the F.A.Cup against Manchester City.

He now became a very important member of that successful team under Keith Burkinshaw that won the FA Cup in successive seasons (1981 & 1982), won the UEFA Cup in 1984 and were runners-up in the League Cup/Milk Cup in 1982.

He also played for the Republic of Ireland and made 194 League appearances before his transfer to Sheffield Wednesday for £130,000 in August, 1987.

Spurs in History - 10th July

10th July, 1978

Spurs Scoop the World

Transfer Coup!

Spurs and Keith Burkinshaw shocked the football world by signing two stars of the successful Argentine World Cup team. The signing of Ossie Ardiles and Ricky Villa brought a great lift and buzz to the club which was looking to re-establish itself in the 1st Division following promotion that summer.

Ossie and Ricky became firm favourites at WHL and although taking time to acclimatise to English football they were important members of the successful team of the early 1980s.

Spurs in History - 25th June

25th June, 1984

Following the departure of Keith Burkinshaw after the club won the EUFA Cup, Spurs required a new manager.

The appointment was confirmed on this day that Peter Shreeves, Burkinshaw’s Assistant would take control. Shreeves had joined Spurs in 1974 as youth team manager and then reserve team manager before being appointed assistant manager in 1980.

He had the backing of the players who made the Board aware of their support for Shreeves. He appointed John Pratt as his Assistant.

Spurs in History - 19th June

19th June, 1993

Ossie Ardiles appointed Manager of Tottenham Hotspur

With the departure of Terry Venables, Alan Sugar required a manager who would appease the fans who were still very angry and in shock following the revelations and press attention of the previous six weeks.

Having missed out on his original choice, Glenn Hoddle, he turned to another Spurs' favourite, Ossie Ardiles who was managing West Bromwich Albion. Sugar realised that he needed to appoint someone who would be popular with the fans which he hoped would buy him time to restore calm and order to the club.

Keith Burkinshaw had been Ardiles Assistant at WBA but he did not follow him to White Hart Lane. It was former captain and record appearances holder, Steve Perryman who became his second in command.

Spurs in History - 23rd May

23rd May, 1984

Spurs 1 RSC Anderlect 1 UEFA CUP FINAL (2nd Leg) (aet) [Won 4-3 on penalties]

The 1st Leg in Belgium had ended 1-1, thanks to a Paul Miller goal and this match developed into a titanic struggle as Anderlect went ahead on the hour. Spurs were without Ray Clemence and Glenn Hoddle injured while Steve Perryman suspended after being booked in the first game.

Their stand-in Captain, Graham Roberts, now became their inspiration and drove them forward in search of the equaliser. It came six minutes from time when from a corner, Ossie Ardiles hit the bar and the ball rebounded to Roberts who blasted it home.

Extra time was tense and then the penalty shoot-out brought forward and unexpected new hero, Tony Parks.

Roberts led by example and scored the first penalty, then Parks deputising for Clemence, saved the first penalty and after Danny Thomas had missed what would have been the winning score he saved the final shot before setting off on a jubilant stampede across the WHL pitch followed by his exultant team mates. The other penalties were scored by Mark Falco, Gary Stevens and Steve Archibald.

Spurs had won the trophy for their departing manager, Keith Burkinshaw and the celebrations went on long into the night.

Team:Parks; Thomas, Roberts(Capt), Miller(Ardiles), Hughton;Hazard, Stevens, Mabbutt(Dick), Galvin; Archibald, Falco

Spurs in History - 14th May

14th May, 1981

Spurs 3 Manchester City 2 F.A.CUP FINAL REPLAY at Wembley.

If the first match was a disappointment, the Replay made up for it. Many thought that Ricky Villa had missed his chance in that game but Keith Burkinshaw kept faith in him and he was repaid handsomely.

Within seven minutes Villa had given Spurs the lead but this only lasted three minutes as City equalised with a spectacular goal. Both teams were creating chances and City went ahead five minutes into the second half from a penalty.

The match became tense with tackles flying in on both sides. In the 71st minute Spurs equalised with a goal from Crooks.

Seven minutes later, Ricky Villa stepped forward and dribbled around and through the City defence to score the most incredible Cup Final winner of all time – Saturday’s ‘failure’ had become the Hero with a never to be forgotten goal.

Team: Aleksic; Perryman(Capt), Miller, Roberts, Hughton; Ardiles, Hoddle, Villa, Galvin; Archibald, Crooks. Sub:Brooke

Spurs in History - 7th May

7th May, 1977

Manchester City 5 Spurs 0. (1st Division)

The darkest day that I can remember in Spurs history. Spurs have suffered heavier defeats but this one meant that they had lost their place in the1st Division for the first time in 27 years. For so much of that time Spurs had seemed above such difficulties, winning trophies and being comfortably placed in the League.

This season brought about the reality of their position and threatened with the drop throughout the season, the team had rallied in the final few games but it wasn’t enough and this defeat brought about the ultimate penalty of relegation.

Players who had previously experienced success and young developing players had failed to retain the club’s position in the top flight but most remained to fight another day and the Board of Directors retained their faith in manager, Keith Burkinshaw.

It was Burkinshaw's first season as manager having been appointed in the summer following the resignation of Terry Neill who went on to manage Arsenal, his former club.

Burkinshaw had been Neill's assistant while the former Arsenal defender and captain, had been the unexpected and controversial appointment following the resignation of Bill Nicholson in 1974. While people were speculating on a dual managerial team of former Spurs' captain, Danny Blanchflower assisted by Johnny Giles, the Leeds United player. This was the recommendation of Nicholson himself but the Directors decided on Neill who was then manager at Hull City.

Spurs in History - 25th April

25th April, 1984

Spurs 1 Hadjuk Split 0 UEFA Cup Semi-Final (2nd Leg)

Having lost the first leg game by 1-2 with Split scoring twice in the second half Spurs were under pressure to regain the initiative. They scored after six minutes when at a free kick outside the penalty area, Micky Hazard managed to bend the ball round the wall and inside the post.

If the score line remained unchanged Spurs would progress on the away goals rule. Hadjuk attacked and Spurs survived a scare when Tony Parks parried the ball onto the bar which it rolled along before dropping to the ground where a flapping and relieved goalkeeper fell on it.

Earlier in the season manager, Keith Burkinshaw, had announced that he would be leaving at the end of the season and the players were determined to give him a leaving present, the UEFA Cup. At least, they had reached the Final.

Spurs v Watford Preview

Tottenham Hotspur v Watford

Saturday, 17th March, 2007 KO: 3.00pm

Referee: Lee Mason

In early February, it was all doom and gloom but look at how the season has been turned around. We’d just lost to the Uniteds of Manchester and Sheffield and were without a Premiership win in 2007. Martin Jol and the players were receiving criticism from all quarters and it was hard to know where the next win was going to come from. At that point if Spurs had had to play Feyenoord in the UEFA Cup, there was little confidence that they would win. Now five weeks later, the season has been transformed – the goals are flying in, seven games undefeated and the style has returned to Tottenham. They have reached the UEFA Cup Q/F and set a record of 8 successive wins in European competitions, they face Chelsea in the FA Cup Q/F Replay on Monday and are within striking distance of 5th place in the Premiership.

Fulham (a) Won 4-0 Keane(2), Berbatov(2) FA Cup
Everton (a) Won 2-1 Berbatov, Jenas Premiership
Bolton Wanderers (h) Won 4-1 Keane(2), Jenas, Lennon Premiership
West Ham United (a) Won 4-3 Defoe (p), Tainio, Berbatov, Stalteri Premiership
SC Braga (a) Won 3-2 Keane(2), Malbranque UEFA Cup
Chelsea (a) Draw 3-3 Berbatov, Ghaly, opp.o.g. FA Cup
SC Braga (h) Won 3-2 Berbatov (2), Malbranque UEFA Cup

The season just keeps rolling on and its back to the ‘bread and butter’ of the Premiership and Watford who are in 19th place having gained only 20 points. They have scored only 5 away goals this season and achieved one win. Many will remember how unfortunate they were to lose their opening game at Everton when they had two controversial refereeing decisions go against them. That performance had suggested good things to come from them this season but they have struggled since with their only away win at West Ham in February, their only win in the last 6 Premiership games and they have only two wins in the last 18 League games.

Watford's recent form: W D L D W W

While struggling in the league, Watford have reached the FA Cup semi-final where they will play Manchester United or Middlesbrough. Last Sunday saw them overcome Plymouth with a single goal, the same score as defeated Ipswich and West Ham in previous rounds.

Their star player is Ben Foster who is on loan from Manchester United. He is getting plenty of experience in goal and had a competent performance in England’s last game and may well be needed if Paul Robinson is injured for the games next weekend. Their leading scorer is Hameur Bouazza with 5, four in the Premiership.

It will be a pleasure to welcome Watford's Assistant Manager to White Hart Lane. Keith Burkinshaw is sure of a warm reception from the Spurs' fans, many of whom will remember his successful team of the early 1980s which culminated in the winning of the UEFA Cup in his final game in charge. Spurs are looking to repeat that performance in this year's competition.

The game at Watford in October ended scoreless, a significant point, as it is the last time that Spurs managed a clean sheet in the Premiership.

Watford’s last visit to White Hart Lane was in December, 1999 when Spurs gave the fans a Boxing Day present of four goals from Ginola, Sherwood (2), Iversen. That was the fourth successive home League win over Watford after three successive defeats in the early 80s.

Home League Record against Watford: P 7 W 4 D 0 L 3 For 15 Ag 11.

Martin Jol will be conscious of Spurs’ busy schedule in the coming weeks and with the Cup replay on Monday, he may want to rest some of the players. There should still be enough experience and ability in the squad to achieve the victory that would keep Spurs’ pursuit of a place in Europe through the Premiership on track. With confidence high Spurs will want to quickly establish control in the match and dampen Watford’s endeavour as they will battle continuously throughout the game. Some will say they wouldn’t mind Spurs losing this game, as long as things work out on Monday, but I want them to win against Watford, even if it’s only by a goal, as long as they win, and maintain their current good form – it looks impressive:

W D W W W W W .

Spurs in History - 16th October

Jimmy Greaves

16th October, 1965

Spurs 5 Manchester United 1 (1st Division)

This game is remembered for the score line and also for the outstanding goal scored by Jimmy Greaves.  He picked the ball up inside the United half, ran at their defence,  going past a number of defenders before rounding the keeper to tap the ball into an empty net - a classic Greaves goal!

Spurs had won five of their six home games and drawn the other but they had lost the last three away games.  Pat Jennings replaced Bill Brown in goal for his first game of the season.

All five forwards scored that day – the other goals coming from Jimmy Robertson, Alan Gilzean, Eddie Clayton and Neil Johnson making only his third appearance.

Amazingly and unfortunately for Spurs, the return game in December also ended 5-1 to the home team.

Team: Jennings, Norman, Knowles, Mullery, Brown,L., Mackay, Johnson, Clayton, Gilzean, Greaves, Robertson.

16th October, 1976

A much less favourable result at Derby County in the season when Spurs unsuccessfully battled against relegation to play in the 2nd Division for the first time since 1949-50 season.

Derby County 8 Spurs 2 (1st Division)

In Keith Burkinshaw's first season as manager Spurs struggled from the very start.  With only two wins in the opening eight games, Spurs were facing a long, hard season.  Early season injuries to Pat Jennings and John Duncan, the previous season's top scorer, had disrupted the team and new signings Ian Moores and Peter Taylor were taking time to adjust to the team.  Spurs had lost the previous game at West Bromwich by four goals to two when Taylor scored on his debut.

Going into the game Derby's record for the season was subdued - they had not recorded a win and had five points having drawn five of their seven games, a point behind Spurs on six points from two wins and two draws.

However, Derby found their form in spectacular fashion in this game against Spurs.  Having gone two goals behind in the first half, Spurs rallied with a penalty from Keith Osgood and a goal from Captain Steve Perryman to be only 3-2 down at half-time and seemingly still in with a chance in the game.  However when Derby scored their fourth on the hour, the flood gates opened and Spurs conceded another four in the final half hour.

The Derby manager was former Spurs' star Dave Mackay.  Writing in his book, 'The Real Mackay,' he recalls how he felt sorry for Pat Jennings the only survivor from his time at Spurs.  As the goals kept going in, 'I really wanted them to stop.  Nobody likes to see a friend in discomfort.  Fortunately for me, Bill Nicholson was no longer at the helm because if he had been I would have felt very, very uncomfortable.'

This is not Spurs' record defeat but it was an indication of the difficulties Spurs were facing in that 1976-77 season.

Team: Jennings, Naylor, Osgood, Hoddle, Young, Pratt, Conn, Perryman, Moores, Jones, Taylor.