Happy?

Is it safe to come out yet?

Gut reaction to the transfer window? Looks like Levy is taking a gamble, looking forward to the next manager perhaps, with what might well be a war chest of funds (if the money isn’t lost in and around Northumberland Park). Pressure is now on Redknapp to excel to leave behind some reminisce of a legacy that includes more than just scapegoating, sound-biting and talking about results as manager of Tottenham rather than Harry Redknapp, currently at Tottenham. Still, responsibility is one to be measured collectively, so the players need to step up too.

One or two of you have already echoed this, but the squad *is* still strong. It’s improved (be it not to the extent most would have wished for) but improved it has. And Redknapp now needs to improve his focus and show everyone that he didn’t just get lucky in 2010. Selection, tactics...inspiring team talks. It's all in the hands (and mouth) of the manager, influencing the feet of the players. Foot and mouth that is bound to drive everyone mad.

We could have really gone for it in this window. Ruiz ended up at Fulham (I guess we don’t rate him) and regardless of where Harry will be next season the new manager in is unlikely to be too concerned about having top quality players bought a season earlier. Unless Levy is expecting change in the New Year. Have to say, selling Crouch in the manner we did suggests that even though the chairman ‘buys’ players Harry wants he also looks to sell players he believes are no longer necessary. Would be interesting to know if he simply sold Crouch because nobody bid for Pav. Would also be doubly interesting to know if Harry finally admitted Crouch is hardly suited the way we should be playing football.

It’s not been slick and it’s a shame we haven’t moved forward with fluidity on and off the pitch, but if this is considered a problem, it’s a good one to have. We’re hardly mid-table with no direction. And if we were heading there, then the Harry-haters will get their wish at Christmas. If Harry pulls it out the bag again, then stability is regained and the next man in arrives without the soap opera dramatics that surround a sacking.

It all smells of yet more Machiavellian tactics from the chairman who is quite content to hold back to see how things play out. If that’s the case, then Redknapp is hardly in the best position meaning that he might not retain the sufficient focus that’s required. The hope is Harry still cares about his brand name to produce the goods. Harry being Harry can not be seen to lose face. Although quite how one loses a face like his, especially when said face endures a 5-1 home thrashing is any ones  guess. Tabloids might be able to answer that gem.

From Levy’s perspective, the gamble is that if we fail to finish top four, the likes of Modric and Bale would most definitely be off. So if you take the profits from those two and add to the money made this window and the money from the CL – there has to be a fair bit to spend. Guess the chairman requires a manager that sees eye to eye with him. It's all just assumption based at the moment. But we are definitely set up to be 'safe' for any eventuality.

So, in summary...

In

Freidel

Adebayor

Parker

Coulibaly

Ceballos

Yago

Out

O’Hara

Keane

Hutton

Palacios

Crouch

Woodgate (released)

Loan

Jenas

Bentley

The three kids we’ve signed are unlikely to figure. Freidel allows for competition for the number one shirt and Adebayor will solve the problem we’ve had in terms of finishing off gilt-ridden chances. He’ll prove a far better target for our midfield and flankers than Crouch. For now at least (with Rafa injured) it looks like it’s going to be 442. Back to basics.

Parker is a player that I’ve always been quick to criticise and will gladly admit I’m wrong if he proves me wrong. I do (perhaps in desperation) understand what he will bring fundamentally in terms of engine-room dynamics and leadership. Something we are seriously lacking when King is not available (the latter that is). Engine-room we don’t have full stop, what with Sandro on the sidelines too. So a perfect opportunity for Parker to prove he can influence when surrounded by a better quality of player(s).

Should add that Luka (on form) provides that deep-lying engine room with allowing possession to flow in our favour, so Parker will bring much needed protection. Could end up being a wonderful combination. If Luka sorts out that delicate little head.

We could have done with a centre-back (was Cahill worth the £10M punt?) and a right-sided winger/forward (Ruiz not fancied). But apparently we at least attempted to sign Cahill but regardless we are left with King, Gallas, Dawson, Bassong and Kaboul. Once upon a time Bassong was signed as potential, had a great season and has now been forgotten about. If we’re going to spend money, we can at least attempt to place some faith in our signings. We’ll have to hope (how often do I use that word?) for the best and that injuries are kind to us at the back.

Players out has been a fruitful one re: wage bill. Obviously the secret of success is to be on the ball with the fiscal rather than the physical. So Levy achieved some smart house-keeping. None of the players had a future at the club (perhaps Crouch at a push – push not strong enough by Harry and Kevin). Top four nailed on now.

Jenas could still have done a job for us. Seriously, don't be laughing. He seems to do well when expectation is not high (that’s when coming off the bench or deputising). Someone will no doubt quote the stat that we apparently win more points per game when JJ plays than when he doesn’t. Stats aside, Levy’s poster-boy mantra has failed. On loan at Villa, it will be of massive interest to see if he re-invents himself as a consistent performer. Here’s hoping he scores a brace against the scum.

As for Bentley. I guess West Ham United require someone who can kick balls into skips. What’s that? That’s not a skip, it’s the Chicken Run? Soz. Couldn’t tell the difference.

So are we stronger? Yes. Are we stronger in terms of matching Utd and City? Of course not. One team has Ferguson the other has unlimited funds and a wage structure that allows for the club to pay the players taxes. Don’t kid yourself, we can’t compete with that.

Liverpool have bought some solid players but are hardly sexy, par that over-rated Suarez up front who just flatters to deceive with this goals and his assists. Arsenal have signed players that we would have been mocked for had we signed them. Although they only have to be 2% better than us to dominate North London in the Prem. Times are changing, and regardless of some of the knee-jerking – it’s hardly suicide watch.

Yes, we should have spent more money and done our business fair earlier in the transfer window, but it seems we waited too long for certain players before opting for the textbook ones. Yes, Harry has lost his mojo (lucky or not, he still got us into the CL). Best we can do (as fans) is support players/club and then freak out when we’re sitting with two points from eight or so games.

It wasn’t a perfect window but it was not a disaster. We held onto our best players. Be it our very best player has been a **** for most of the summer. Everyone is accountable. Window is shut. The dramatics are over.

There might be a twist or turn or three by Christmas or we might be competing for 4^th and then all the haters can dream about the summer of 2012. Although I expect us to splash some of that money in January (if we have any sense) – if we’re competing top four.

But it's way too early to start bitching about stuff that hasn’t even played out yet.

Onwards, right?

-

From the world famous secret studio of The Fighting Cock podcast team, it's episode six. Discussed in part one: Twitter re-tweet mission update. Man City debacle autopsy. Livermore > Modric. The truth behind Luka's performance against City. Formation headaches. Centre-back headaches. Positivity and negativity. Harry Redknapp is dissected (it gets ugly) along with our transfer dealings (pre-deadline day) and Neil the Cabbie is back with a brand new rant. In part two we laugh at the scum (lol) and whether we should in fact be laughing at them. We laugh at them anyway. We've got emails. Also Daniel Levy. Do we love him? Or do we not? Do you love him? A twist on the Tottenham Whisper. And we end with a super-quick game of Killer.

Love the shirt.

Jim White's head set to explode. Don't forget to tune in.

Another deadline transfer day. Another opportunity for us all to witness the explosion of Jim White's head on Sky Sports News. We live in hope, however Jim's head appears to be explosion-proof. Unless it explodes off camera after the deadline closes shut. Perhaps Sky have cloned him or in fact he might be an android, which might explain the over the top euphoric emotions when explaining to viewers that someone, possibly of Earth origin, has been seen walking in and around the Chigwell area. Does Jim dream of Harry in a Range Rover?

Still, those of us with the privilege will tune into SSN regardless of the disdain that is sometimes shown towards their passion for yellow-ticking the most mundane content (low-key Prem player is injured for four weeks...let's stick 'breaking news' on the top left-hand corner of the screen and proceed to bang on about it for three hours). Don't forget the massive wide-screen touch-screen that not only displays all  the current ITK nonsense doing the rounds but can also display the Surf Report, if 1 foot waves on the coasts of England and Wales is your thang.

Just pretend it's satirical. It turns instantly to genius.

However, today, I'll accept in terms of pure entertainment...they capture the scatter-gun madness of the count-down brilliantly. Reporters outside all the expected-to-be-busy clubs/training facilities, dramatic high voices (go Jim go!), special guest commentators in the studio to give their invaluable predictions and Harry Redknapp in a helicopter (because it's quicker to collect the pizza than it is to wait for the bloke on the delivery moped).

It's epic. It's ridiculous. It's brinkmanship. It's panic. And that's without Sky Sports. With it, parts of your brain might haemorrhage with the overload of anticipation. Mostly always much ado about nothing because we know that sometimes the anticipation is far greater than the pleasure. I mean come on, Sky actually call it 'Deadline Day' like its box office movie. It's in HD and sh*ts gonna happen, Yippee-ki-yay Daniel Levy! Everything is Hollywood baby.

Cue frenzied vocals and snazzy on-screen graphics...

"...right now let's go to Loftus Road, shall we, breaking news, QPR, let's get the latest...Rachel Brookes..."

"Right, well, I can confirm QPR are interested in Craig Bellamy..."

Hmm...Okay then. That's an actual direct quote from this morning.

Talking of breaking news, Harry has already been at it first thing, arriving at The Lodge, leaning out of the window, mic in face. Confirming Modric is not going (1,000,000%) and that Crouchie might be the one to shift out because he's the one in demand. Cahill also on the radar. Hot. Off. Press.

The bad news is, I'm tragically not going to witness the hopeful explosion of Jim White's head this evening. In fact, from around 5pm till gone 10pm I'm going to have to rely on my 3G connection and Twitter. Travelling up to Manchester (to kidknap Adam Johnson). No guarantee that I'll see anything when checking into the hotel either due to commitments. Might well be offline for most of Thursday also unless I can sneak in some interweb time on the sly. I'm sure Twitter will rescue me. Although judging by the way journalists and fans (and Tom Huddlestone and Danny Rose) are currently sharing/discussing protracted transfers, its an even bigger mess of hype than Sky Sports News.

I guess, it's not that important what happens leading up to it, in the build up because it's what happens right at the end that matters most. Hold on, why am I talking about sex?

So what of the transfers?

I guess brinkmanship is the reason so many clubs wait until the final day. The selling club hoping for that extra million or two from the panicking buying club and the buying club hoping the selling club panic and sell on the cheap. We can only guess that the reason we've waited until the last minute to sign Scott Parker is because we've spent the best part of a month and a half attempting to sign Diarra. Hardly decisive, are we? Seems every player we lust after requires a minimum 6 weeks of flirting before we know whether we're going to capture their signature or not. If we were talking about sex, Tottenham would last all night making gentle love, but never reaching a climax. Here's hoping Daniel Levy is good with his hands.

When using the fax machine. I'm talking football again.

Parker, Cahill + one other player (another forward or perhaps one that can double up and play right-wing/midfield, you know, like that Ruiz fella who has signed for Fulham) would be a good solid final day. When our injured warriors are back, we'll have a beastly team. The question at that point will be whether Harry works out a consistent cohesive formation for them to fit into. Let's not forget, we've signed Adebayor. He'll make a monumental difference up front.

Parker, bless him, handing in a transfer request just for show to appease the Green Street faithful (Big Sam preferring Nolan, porn barons not wanting too lose too much face). He'll fix one issue (engine in midfield, leadership). Although he has plenty to prove once he wears the Lilywhite. Still worry that he excels in average teams and struggles in decent ones...on hold up, he'll be perfect for us then! lolololol and so on.

Other targets? Diarra is still being linked. Bellamy (he's being linked to everyone). Leandro Damião da Silva dos Santos? Not a chance in this window. Yossi Benayoun? Joe Cole? I hope not. Gignac
is being linked to Fulham. Cheeky bid? And Mario Ballotelli's profile has been removed from Man City's official player profile page, so nailed on medical at The Lodge due in 3...2...1...

Everyone wants a van der Vaart Part II last second special from the chairman. You know, just without the excess weight and injury plights.

As for players out? Other than Crouch, Pav is whoring himself again. Jenas to QPR is much touted but would be shocked to see it happen. Bentley won't move on as nobody will pay the £30M Levy wants for him. Hutton, you'd hope someone would take the plunge. As for Gomes, do not believe we'd be stupid enough to loan him out. Bassong might form part of a swap deal for Cahill (do swap deals still happen?). Anyone want to save Niko from central midfield? One thing looks certain at the time of writing, dos Santos looks to be anchored to us once again.

Hold onto ya hats then.

It's a massive day for Harry Redknapp and Daniel Levy. Today will define just how good of a squad Tottenham Hotspur will have in Football Manager 2012.

COYS.

Love the shirt.

Join me on Twitter @Spooky23

-

The Fighting Cock is a brand new THFC podcast. You can stream it or download it here on DML (make sure you have a Quicktime plug-in installed).

Love the Shirt.

Flav, tehTrunk, Spooky, Ricky, Chicago Dan.

The FC Podcast group on Facebook.

Also listen to The Fighting Cock via:

iTunes
rss feed
soundcloud

e-mail: thefightingcock at gmail dot com - we want your feedback, suggestions and e-mails.

Negative

Spurs 1 City 5

Two games, zero points, seven goals against. We are simply not good enough to compete for the top four this season because Levy will not spend big and from the looks of it is hardly seeing eye-to-eye with Harry Redknapp if you take note of Harry's constant whining to the media and anyone else who will listen. Moaning and complaining about everything and never taking responsibility.

We were shocking. Midfield was weak, Bale disappointing and Crouch completely redundant. van der Vaart's inclusion forces Redknapp to play the one man upfront and yet still manages to select the wrong man. Was he making a point playing Crouch there what with Stoke interested in the player? Was he hoping Peter would pick up a knock or score a brace - just to prove a point? Arrogance from the manager, especially with his weak centre-midfield pairing. Another point being made there? Levy holding back on Parker? Sort it out the pair of you, ffs.

Post-match Harry complained about it being the worst pre-season ever and that we've been distracted by the Modric transfer saga. Hey Harry, guess what...along with Sky Sports you're the one that's keeps that saga running, constantly talking up scenarios about what ifs and Luka's mindset and Chelsea. Every time you open your mouth, its another headline birthed and yet more unnecessary coverage of this protracted transfer. It's the worst pre-season ever. After two defeats. No trouble or complaints before. Just post 5-1 spanking. Nice work Harry, insightful.

Does Levy not talk to Redknapp? Does he not outline company policy and ask for his manager to echo the chairman's stance? Why are there so many contradictions? Why the constant commentary and soundbiting? Why the blame game?

If there are problems with transfer targets because we are aiming too high or do not have the money or simply because Levy does not want to spend big (for whatever reason) then there is clearly a relationship break-down if Redknapp continues to use the lack of activity as a reason for the troubles we've had on the pitch. Even though I question the fact that the set of players are the same set that gained us CL qualification. Lost your mojo Harry? Been found out? Everyone bored of you?

Saying that Modric came to him two hours before kick-off to state he did not want to play is completely leftfield of what we were told the other day that the player had cleared things up with the Levy and was available. What possible good will it do if the player remains at the club past the transfer window closing? Redknapp leaves you wondering if Levy is actually considering selling the player or wanted the player sold much earlier. Its the perfect advert for miscommunication.

Modric plays, he gets subbed...we have ourselves a scapegoat. It's all Luka's fault. If the players head is still not right, then wait until AFTER the window shuts, then stick him in the team. Or was this simply about him making sure he gets to go off on International break with his country?

Luka did not exactly look disinterested. He looked frustrated at times, which is usually someone playing with professionalism and pride. But no, the 5-1 is basically down to the fact that our really decent squad of players are suddenly playing like ketmaine induced rabbits because we've not brought in a crate of nice fresh carrots. Sure, we are missing players. But come on, at the very least show some tactical nous. Inspire the team. Same goes for the ones pulling on the shirt. Where is the love for the shirt?

Scott Parker can't sign quick enough. Hate myself for saying that. Joey Barton would have got us a grip today also. No leadership and a distinct lack of belief with the additional bonus (ha!) of a manager more interested in deflecting attention away from his misgivings and tagging our on field hiccups with off field story arcs.

If we don't sign a few more players to sort out the current issues we have then we're in trouble of finishing 5th or 6th. But that might be the position that equates to our standard. The standard being one that has been crafted out of mismanagement by chairman and manager.

The chairman, too stubborn to act quickly, accepting the consequences more easily and the paying punters. The manager far too interested in his own agenda and brand name to really care about 'them' Tottenham.

Best we accept ourselves to be good enough for Europa League and nothing more. Less chance of being dissatisfied then.

Positive

Spurs 1 City 5

Okay, so some perspective. We lined up with no defensive midfielders and started with Peter Crouch upfront and then found ourselves out numbered in the middle and final third quicker than you can say 'tactics'. Once again, there was an element of the disjointed and perhaps even a touch of the stubborn (what with Crouch supposedly on his way to Stoke City yet in the starting line-up - perhaps a message from gaffer to chairman forming yet another twist in their alleged damaged relationship).

Placing aside in-house disagreements, we lined up not only with a team not shaped to contain City but a team that lacked the belief they could do that and anything more. But that's not to say it was a chaotic calamity filled 90 minutes of football. At 2-0, it flattered City some what. After that, they deserved to ruin our afternoon at will and with ease. We let them with no reply of our own. Once more, apologetic.

There is no excuse for losing 5-1 at home. But it was the most passive 5-1 defeat you're likely to witness. City simply picked us off with clinical football. Confident in themselves, each other and their formation and confident in front of goal. Even though they were not completely fluid (expected considering their new players - makes it even more bitter a pill to swallow for us).

They were enjoying their day and their football. How ironic considering at the start of last season it was them containing us whilst we swashbuckled down the flanks and through the middle, with only Hart stopping us from running away with it.

City have grown with the aid of several million pounds and no wage cap. We've stagnated if you take a look at the back end of last season and how we stopped performing. But preparation for this one has hardly been great considering we appear reluctant to compete at the top end of the transfer market. Perhaps because fiscally, we can't. Ambitious targets beyond our reach. Still, you would have hoped for decisive action by chairman and manager. Instead we have suggestions they don't quite see eye to eye and once more, transfers will need to take place in the final couple of days or so.

The visitors have found their groove. We've lost ours.

Again, injuries don't help but if we look weak in key areas pre-match then you'd want admittance from Redknapp that perhaps we need to be shrewd, cunning in our formation and our strategy. Not the Tottenham way. Not what I previewed yesterday. But it looked to me like the manager believed we could perhaps play them and match them pound for pound when the reality was they were far too polished whilst we simply did not work as a unit and had various degradations of form from individuals.

Modric played. But his productivity hardly outstanding because the players around him were distinctively average. But he played okay. Not sure why he was subbed. Didn't make a difference either way in the end. Player not looking at the manager or applauding the fans when walking off the field of play. Disgruntled.

The goals (most of them) we conceded were not defended well at all. Embarrassing stuff, lack of any apparent focus. We had chances, but how many times do we have to sigh in despondence when said chances are not taken? It was City playing with intent and us presenting them with the red carpet. Never red, indeed. Red with anger today.

Nasri, Aguero and Silva. Stick them in our team then watch how different the result would have been. Hard knock life. We still have quality in abundance. We need to shake off the rust from last season's disappointing finish and reclaim that grit and spine we had so famously in 2010. Think back, we had injuries then too. Perhaps not so many issues with central midfield as we do now.

We've played two games and lost two. Arguably against the two strongest sides in the country. Our problems have been illustrated in quite a humiliating manner with regards to the scoreline for all to analyse and discuss. It's obvious what we need in terms of signings. We've got us a striker. We need DM cover. We could do with a centre-back. We could still do with a right-sided forward to compete with Lennon and give us options when playing two up front.

Adebayor will bring us that much needed cutting edge. Rafa will have a far better forward to play off if Harry continues with the current formation. Only takes one moment, once slice of luck or inspiration to completely change the course of season and set us on our way.

Criss? The fact we are even discussing avoidance of a 'crisis' after two games...well, its over the top. It hurts, but we might have to admit that the likes of Utd and City are in a far more comfortable place than us. We've lost direction, perhaps because of the Modric saga and the in-house disagreements (assumptions). We have to show unity once more.

More importantly, we need the players and the manager to get a grip and to remind themselves they are capable of much much more. We got it very wrong today and were duly and deservedly spanked for it. If Harry is keen on self-preservation of his brand name, then he has work to do. Levy has to support him in doing so. And Harry has to respect the chairman at all times.

Losing to a good team is one thing. Losing to a good team and making them look great is another. Losing badly to a good team that don't even manage to shift into a more aggressive gear is simply shambolic.

Not a good day at all. But with both Manc games out of our system, we can just look forward now. Redknapp, the players - they have a lot to answer for and a lot to give back to the club in the next couple of games to avoid any dramatic twists that might well cause us to unravel further and crisis isn't the only 'c' word quoted by the fans.

This Modric stuff is beyond ridiculous now and Redknapp constantly citing him as the root of all evil when in the past he's actually called him a model professional is almost touching comedy, the ilk that few will laugh at.

Onwards with pride Tottenham. I want to hear the cockerel crow.

We'll improve. I still believe we'll compete for the top four. Arsenal are having their own problems and Liverpool still have to prove their longevity and how they react to loss of form.

Not defending our teams performance today (it was poor), just trying to anchor myself to something to avoid drowning in depression.

Rejoice! We've signed two players. Well, sort of...

Good to see the likes of Harry Kane and Tom Carroll playing in Lilywhite. Not exactly a show-piece occasion (empty seats, lack of home support atmosphere, bit boring). Felt like a reserve team run-out punctured with misfiring first teamers, but pretty much irrelevant with the tie over in the first leg - other than blooding the young. Shame Harry didn't stick the pen away. Next time son. Guaranteed both players along with Fredericks, Livermore and Townsend will feature in the group stage. Far cry this from the Champions League glory nights of last season.

Chin up, it's what we need to work towards once more. Spirit of 2010.

I guess the big news tonight is that we've signed Yago Falque. That and Adebayors' two month medical was finally concluded this evening. Not only officially announced by the club before Harry Redknapp knew about it (yeah, whatever) but also Big Ade managed to blag a seat behind Levy in the directors box.

Season long loan, on both accounts.

I guess we need to wait and see if we actually part with money and buy someone before we start scratching our heads about whether the money isn't there (NDP, new training ground the priorities) or that Levy simply doesn't want to spend when the manager might not be here in the long term (unlikely IMO, we need to challenge this season).

Falque is apparently more of an attacking midfielder than a winger although the suggestion is he will play out right and be competition for Lennon. Read this article if you want some background on the player from a Juventus fan (obviously, take it any which way you wish). Hardly inspiring (have you read the linked article?), but regardless - welcome to the Lane Yago. Ceballos has a new friend. Hopefully we'll see more of the gifted than the fragile (from both kids).

The lunacy of the situation that some of you have already noted is that we're signing a kid on loan and still waiting to rid ourselves of David '£16M' Bentley. I guess perhaps the logic here works. Why risk another near £20M on someone when you can sign a player for nothing? It's rhetorical. Don't answer. But you sort of get the point. Spending big money in the past has left us burnt. But in comparison to say City, it's an epic canyon size difference. We shouldn't complain until we see how the squad sets up in the next week or so. Still shouldn't complain after that either (now I'm looking for us to sign a miracle).

Still, strange that there are no other more permanent (and affordable) seasoned options out there. One thing is for certain, there's only one David Bentley so we can't go making that mistake again. Our scouts must have seen something special with Falque, so you have to have faith in it. Well, you don't have to.

As for Big Bad Ade. He has something to prove. This will work for us. He's better than anything we currently have. I have more than faith in this signing. I have certainty. Football being football, we might discover that he alongside JD equals magic. Have to wait and see.

Moving on...

If you watched the game on TV, did you note Harry Redknapp in the pre-match interview? Observations:

Redknapp saying he had no idea Adebayor was at the Lane and stating he thought he was still having a medical. Is it just me or was Harry being facetious? Then he talks about the loan deal (great signing) and contradicts his earlier stance. He knew, obviously he knew. But I guess wanted to dig at Levy who has no doubt instructed him to ease off the dramatics when being interviewed. Good Luka soundbites though, saving the day.

Talking of Luka, SSN suggesting the meeting between Luka/advisors and Levy went well and the player is staying. Sky obviously providing refreshments and making notes. Even though the player was always staying and at no point during this tiresome draining process has the player been in a position of power to influence or engineer a successful move away. I can half imagine the conversation in Levy's office...

Luka: "So, you promise in January you will let me go to Chelsea? As long as I play 100% with heart for Spurs between now and then?"
Levy: "Yes"
Luka: "You promise?"
Levy: "I promise"
Luka: "How do I believe you are telling me the truth?"
Levy: "I am"
Luka: "I need more than that"
Levy: "Okay. Let's shake hands"
Luka: "Shake hands?"
Levy: "Sure, yes. Shake hands. We can call it a gentleman's agreement"
Luka: "Okay, okay. Gentleman's agreement. I shake your hand"
Levy: "Good lad"
Luka: "You promise now?"
Levy: "Did we shake hands?"
Luka: "Yes"
Levy: "Then it's as good as a contract"
Luka: "I'm very happy. I play for Spurs now"
Levy: "I know"

Modric in the starting line-up versus City? Scores a goal? Kisses the badge? Come on, it could happen.

Regarding the post-match interview:

Looks like Levy is in for a couple of players. So says Harry. None of which are Joe Cole. So says Harry, sort of indirectly by banging on about the 'kid' Cole with his usual affection.

Conclusions?

Levy does what he thinks is right with transfers, and rejects ones he believes are of risk and not value for money (Cole and probably Parker too). Harry is not in agreement with most of the decision making and is powerless. Levy has told Harry to keep his mouth as shut as possible. And when it's opened to be pro-Levy stance on Luka.

It's all very cagey and uncomfortable.

The sooner this window shuts, the sooner the conspiracies end and the sooner we can all just support the team (players and manager). Everyone is nervous, concerned, frustrated and impatient. We're all feeding off each other. Damn you social networking.

Here's hoping the next two signings 'in' unite us all. Anyone would think we're a club in crisis.

-

The Fighting Cock is a brand new THFC podcast. You can stream it or download it here on DML (make sure you have a Quicktime plug-in installed).

Love the Shirt.

Flav, tehTrunk, Spooky, Ricky, Chicago Dan.

The FC Podcast group on Facebook.

Also listen to The Fighting Cock via:

iTunes
rss feed
soundcloud

e-mail: thefightingcock at gmail dot com - we want your feedback, suggestions and e-mails.

I'd rather Barton than Cole. Admit it, you would too...

Morning.

Okay, so what do I need to blog about today? The Judicial Review. Levy telling Chelsea 'to f**k off' re: Modric. Ade and Diarra practically done (for the 3rd week on the trot). Joe Cole. Hearts 'preview'. Being linked with Parker again. And Joey Barton. Here we go...

High Court drama

It would appear Levy was correct in fighting this with the judge yesterday granting us permission (along with Orient) for our application for a judicial review of the decision to give Olympic stadium to West Ham United. That's a review of the process leading up to the decision that saw us get spanked 14-0. The rather unfair process, that Levy won't let go of. Again, whether this is a case of us proving a point or attempting to claim back money spent or perhaps also gain as much leverage as possible - we don't know. As the chairman pointed out during the OS bid, there are certain things that have to be held back.

As one or two have already pointed out, its only leverage if nobody actually perceives it as that. So when is enough, enough?

Running parallel to this all day yesterday was the suggestion that the Mayor of London was in deep talks with the club relating to support for the NDP and the Tottenham area. What some expected was for Spurs to drop the court case and accept (finally) the money/deal/compromise that would be offered. But for now the 'game' continues.

One thing is for certain though. All of this does not look good for the Olympic Committee and the image of the games being held in England along with the fact that the recent riots (shown across the world) was hardly a great advertisement. N17 needs help. The Olympic Games do not need the adverse publicity. The NDP needs a helping hand.

It's still all very political and Machiavellian. It's still all bluffs and threats. We'll have to wait and see who stands down first.

Levy: You shall not pass

So via Harry (where else would you expect to hear it from?), Levy has instructed Chelsea to give up on Luka not bother with any more bids or pressure via media outlets as the player (as stated countless countless times) is simply not available and will not be sold. In other words, regardless of the cheap ITK headlines news feeds are polluted with from one day to the next, there has been no change in stance by chairman since his very first public announcement/statement.

Player might want to leave. Player might not be completely right in the head either. But as I've said before, Luka's head has not been right since it was turned during the start of the summer. He's obviously injured (carrying a knock) and that's being used as an escape to avoid first time action whilst he sulks and comes to terms with the fact he will have to pull on the Lilywhite shirt again.

Redknapp has probably had to tell him to get his sh*t together. Hence the 'his head aint right' comment.

I don't think he's on strike or even contemplating it. Also think Harry's comment was just Harry being not so articulate with his words as there was nothing much wrong with the rest of his comments when clearly stating 'he's not going to be sold'. He could have just stated Modric was injured and left it at that. We do not need to disclose everything from within the club. But then this is Redknapp we're talking about.

You might want Luka out for the disrespect he's shown to the shirt. I hardly want to hug the bloke myself. But my opinion still remains the same. Honour the contract. The club have to make sure he does just that. If a contract is simply a tool of insurance to gain as much transfer fee money as possible then here's some advice for footballers and their agents. Don't sign massive 6 year contracts and accept the money on offer.

Adebayor and Diarra

I still believe the Adebayor deal was 'done and dusted' a week or two back. Just formalities to be sorted. Just a gut feeling that Levy wants to bundle together all the signings and then reveal all (ooh) at a snazzy press conference. Ade was spotted and photographed with BAE, so there's no doubting he's back in London. The questions surround whether this will be a loan deal or a permanent one.

The other questions (this morning) concern Diarra. Yesterday the Madrid press said the deal was practically done. Now the player himself is saying he isn't moving.

"The information about my departure is a lie. There's no agreement with Tottenham and I don't think there will be"  - Diarra

Cheeky Arsenal bid? There is some logic in perhaps not worrying too much if he decided to reject us. One being the fact he tends to throw a hissy fit if not selected and when Sandro is fit, Sandro will be number one choice (at least you hope that's the case - I'm trying to ignore Harry's favouritism here).

Controversially, I'd just offer Joey Barton a contract. Non-believers, embrace Barton. I'd have him sitting in the middle of the pitch tweeting. He wouldn't even have to play football.

Yes. I did just say that. I've changed my mind on this. I'm easily influenced by Twitter. We need an absolute **** in the midfield to anger up the players and at times embarrass them into fighting rather than falling asleep on the ground sucking thumbs.

I did clearly say controversially, so stop screaming at your monitor.

I doubt West Ham would look to do business with us re: Parker. And to be honest, I dislike Parker more than I dislike Barton. Parker 'the Spurs fan' who rejected Spurs 2/3 times. Top bloke.

Having said all this, perhaps Diarra has simply been instructed to say what he has said. Either by agent or by Spurs. We'll find out soon enough. Tick tock tick tock.

Joe Cole

Don't be so f**king silly.

Breaking the Hearts of Scotland

Luka might play. In fact, the git should be forced to play if he's fit. We'll need someone in the middle to allow the game to flow and possession to be kept as Harry looks to start 'the yoof'. 

Enter...

Harry Kane. Goal getter.
Tom Carroll. Cultured versatile midfielder (deep-lying midfielder...the English Luka?)
Lewis Hamilton. Energetic winger.

Bookmark Windys blog for all the info you'll ever need on our kids.

Should be a good game, if anything, because Hearts will (should) offer a stern test (more so than what they offered up North) and look to reclaim some pride after their thrashing on home turf. And we finally get to see Kane, a big prospect, show us if he has the touch and maturity to perhaps feature in more games this season rather than just a cameo.

What does remain a massive positive is the fact that we are finally seeing some of these youth players break into first team action. Livermore at Old Trafford did himself proud. Townsend always looks bright, so Kane and Carroll...over to you. No pressure. Seriously, no pressure. If you're at the game this evening, sing up sing up. This is what it's about. Tottenham yoof coming through the academy and wearing the shirt.

Love it.

-

The Fighting Cock is a brand new THFC podcast. You can stream it or download it here on DML (make sure you have a Quicktime plug-in installed).

Love the Shirt.

Flav, tehTrunk, Spooky, Ricky, Chicago Dan.

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Modric. Again.

Another day, another Harry throw-away soundbite that gets savaged on like a pack of zombies eating through a bit part character in The Walking Dead.

This illustrates why Redknapp should just say 'no comment' or just decline an appearance (although he's probably the one inviting himself). Personally think he has said something off the back of something we already know. Luka wants to leave. That's different, very different to the club looking to sell him and then publicly and indirectly suggest that the player is refusing to play. Just a single soundbite chewed and spat out by the gaffer, and suddenly the player is on the verge of signing for Chelsea again.

Redknapp, hardly the articulate type, probably wasn't suggesting what the media are lapping up at the moment whilst they continue to push their Modric to West London agenda.

The player is injured, not fully fit. The additional commentary on the state of his head (last time I noticed it was still sitting on his neck) was unnecessary and is also pretty much common knowledge. It's like Harry can't help himself (consciously or subconsciously) by stirring it up a little bit by stating facts of truth that only serve to feed the hungry journalists and sports desks.

Breaking news...Modric's head hasn't been right from the moment the Daily Mail published that interview from the yacht.

Once more I refer you to:

Levy has stated its a closed matter and the player won't be sold.
Modric and agent agreed a 6 year contract, of the ilk of an actual gentleman's agreement where pen gracefully touched paper.

All the alleged engineering in the world won't change the fact that regardless of the fact that this now transcends the player himself (he is simply a chess piece), the club can not go back on their word. This is not the same as the Berbatov strike and United move.

Redknapp (you might have missed this particular soundbite) cited the fact the chairman wont sell the player. He probably just needs to read off a cheat sheet next time to avoid using the wrong terminology.

Onwards to the only thing that should matter today. United at Old Trafford. Spirit of '89 and all that.

-

The Fighting Cock is a brand new THFC podcast. You can stream it or download it here on DML (make sure you have a Quicktime plug-in installed).

Love the Shirt.

Flav, tehTrunk, Spooky, Ricky, Chicago Dan.

The FC Podcast group on Facebook.

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Deluded thought of the day

You'll all mad if you think Levy isn't working his cotton socks off trying to bring in players. Our problem is always going to be our ambition (we need to sign players better than what we have or to the standard of our 'world class' players) and the fact the market has been clusterf*cked in recent seasons meaning mental transfer fees and astronomical wage demands.

Shame we can't scout a bargain (I guess we have with the Brazilian Leandro Damiao at Internacional, although not so much a bargain any more thanks to his new contract) but if we're aiming high, remember we're dealing with players who are obsessed with CL and clubs that want to milk us for every penny.

Snapshots from 'The Rose' pub in London Bridge, recording ep 3 of The FC Podcast

Something has to give. What Levy has to accept is that we might just have to pay that extra £5M or lose a little on players we wish to move on.

Failure to improve the squad will be massively detrimental. Which is why I still hold faith. If I can see it, Levy can see it.

If you think I've gone soft on Mr Chairman, that's not the case. Benefit of the doubt because strike three and you're out is just not a conclusion we could all possibly embrace. I'm not going to spend the lead up to the closure of the transfer window depressed if there's the potential that I'm going to spend the entirety of the season depressed.

Cometh the Spurs.

Love the shirt.

-

The Fighting Cock is a brand new THFC podcast. You can stream it or download it here on DML (make sure you have a Quicktime plug-in installed).

Love the Shirt.

Flav, tehTrunk, Spooky, Ricky, Chicago Dan.

The FC Podcast group on Facebook.

Also listen to The Fighting Cock via:

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e-mail: thefightingcock at gmail dot com - we want your feedback, suggestions and e-mails.

Leaked letter from Spurs to Chelsea

Ron Gourlay
Stamford Bridge,
Fulham Road, London
SW16 1HS

Mr. Gourlay,

Further to your correspondence and renewed pursuit of Luka Modric, I am writing to you to tell this player is not for sale at ANY price.

Whilst I commend the work you have done in getting to the player with the use of an unnamed Iranian agent, I can only apologise for the club’s stance in this instance.

On 1st September 2011, Luka Modric will be a Tottenham Hotspur player. I hope this is clear and the club does not welcome any other offers.

Further to this, the club would like to make an enquiry about Fernando Torres. As a result of his clear dip in form and lack of goals, the club think it would be appropriate to offer £14million plus £2.6million in add-ons for International and Premier League honours.

We hope you are satisfied with this offer and look forward to hearing your positive response in the near future.

May I close this note with a piece of advice; Nigel Reo-Coker is currently a free agent and would be a very good addition to your current squad.

I look forward to sharing a beverage with you and Roman on Tuesday 20th December.

Kind Regards,

Daniel Levy
Chairman,
Tottenham Hotspur Football Club Plc.

Tottenham Hotspur Football Club
Bill Nicholson Way, 748 High Road, Tottenham,
London, N17 0AP

Telephone: 0844 499 5000

Luka Potty and the Threatly Hollows

(Part I)

It's a war of words between Luka Modric and Daniel Levy and it can still take on another twist and turn if action is taken as the next form of attack. But we've been promised no such undertaking from agent and player with regards to a transfer request. The words at play appear to be slow brooding monsters which wont truly pack a punch until they are backed up with substance. The trouble is, such substance would constitute an action that would possibly push this saga to the point of no return with any chance of a reconcile left bloody and lifeless on the dirty floor.

At this point it's hard to guess which of the two will be holding the shovel, digging the shallow grave. I'm going to side-step the necessity to drown myself (and you) in another philosophical dissection and instead just respond to what Modric has said in his most recent comments, post-meeting with Levy. I'll include a caveat. It's just a theory. Again, probably just part of the denial process we're all working our way through.

The caveat is this:

The words from Luka hurt because they are words directed straight at the chairman and at the club and appear to be pretty much final in terms of where his preference for football resides. Now regardless of whether these are actual words straight from the horses mouth or are in fact via the mouth of whom mounts said horse is neither here or there because the agent is protecting his clients best interests. Or at the very least advising client of what his best interests should be.

Note how quiet the agent is. Not too many quotables from him. All the sulking and disparaging remarks are from Luka. The victim. The one chained to a drain pipe in the basement. I'll get to the details below, but I'm wondering if victim Luka has been advised that the only way out is to engineer a sh*tstorm via relentless insubordination. Scrap relentless. It's more akin to a crying child that refuses to go to bed, ignoring his father and the belt he holds firm in his hands.

If there was no gentleman's agreement then perhaps a half-truth distorted to create the illusion of a broken promise? The fact is, how desperate is the player to leave Tottenham? If he's that desperate and hard done by, hand in a transfer request and go on strike. If this is a matter of honour (not to go back on your word) and handing in a transfer request is not a possibility and is in fact a point to be made (against Levy's apparent dismissiveness of the aforementioned broken agreement) then how about extending that honour to include the six year contract signed at the time?

I don't believe there's any prolonged tapping up at play. Chelsea have told the player they want him. They've done their bit. Light the match, watch the fire spread.

So unless this is a slowly orchestrated attempt to gradually force the club to sell up, I hardly see any point in all the crying from the Croatian. Because it won't be enough. He (along with agent) know there is no way out of this. They have quite possibly even accepted it. No legal clause, no leg to stand on. Massively long contract. Other clubs have stood their ground. Why should we be condemned for doing the same thing? He's our player. He should have thought about the challenges ahead for Spurs in terms of fighting to cement a top four place for more than just a cameo.

So all they can do is make biting remarks and point fingers about how unfair things are. As cited, if you mean it, then push us a little more to see the type of reaction you'll get.

If Luka had the same length of time left on his contract as Berbatov, then Levy would never have said what he said about this being a closed subject/not for sell/not about the money. Luka loses because of the signature he signed. This is not about loyalty because we know its something only supporters embrace. Luka left his boyhood club to join us, but that was thanks to an accepted transfer bid and agreement between two clubs and the player. He wants to play CL football now and his personal opinion on THFC has changed from this time last season when he was committed. In a blink of an eye things can change.

Until such a day (another move) he should deal with the reality that unless someone breaks a transfer record, we wont entertain it. And even then we probably wont - if you wish to take the chairman's words at face value.

The club > a player

Unhappy footballer aside, this is a statement. If Luka wants to be the sacrificial lamb, that's up to him.

Play out of your skin or be skinned. Over to you Luka.

Lengthy caveat or what? Okay, so I failed to side step drowning in another philosophical dissection. This is my therapy so thanks for listening. I've used The Guardian's article as reference to the translated interview from Croatian newspaper Sportske Novosti. My thoughts included below each quote.

(Part II)

> Modric, who said Levy had given a "twisted account" of their meeting at the ground last Wednesday...

Anything can be 'twisted' if you don't happen to agree with it. It's called perception. If you're told something you don't like but it's an unequivocal truth you simply have to take it on the chin. So stop suggesting you've been knocked down to the canvas with a punch below the belt.

> "I reminded the chairman of our gentleman's agreement when we were in Dubrovnik last summer and I agreed a contract extension with Tottenham"Spurs are saying, supposedly, there was no agreement.

You wonder how this played out at the time. Was it part of the formal discussion? Did they sign the contract whilst dining at a restaurant? Few drinks? Perhaps Luka leaned forward, politely asked if the club could listen to any offers with Daniel nodding a yes and a sure. Is that it? Is that the get-out-clause? Is that Levy down on his knees with gun pushed hard to back of head? Levy, the shrewd negotiator agreeing to something doodled on a napkin? Give over. This sounds like nothing more than a seed planted to be refereed back to if required. Which is what agent and player have done.

Considering how content all seemed post-signing of contract, I doubt this was anything other than a whimsical whisper lost over some choice food and wine.

> "At that time, I had an open chat with Levy – that if a bigger club came in with a concrete offer, we would consider it and agree the best solution for all concerned. Now Levy doesn't want to talk to me and said there is no possibility that I can leave Spurs. He threatened me – he said if I didn't accept the club's stance, they would make me sit on the bench or in the stands."

Does a club that advertises season tickets to fans with zero loyalty points constitute a big club? Or is it simply a club with big money? Sorry, low blow. Could not resist.

This is about Champions League and having it every season. Shame on us for attempting to break the already degrading monopoly. Fact is, had we qualified for it again we'd not be talking about Modric to Chelsea. Fact is, had Luka scored a couple of comfortable chances we'd not be talking about Modric to Chelsea. We are owed a lot by both Luka and the rest of the players. Just a couple of home wins in it, that was the difference.

Retaining Modric will mean nothing, not a thing, if we don't consolidate and sign 2/3 top drawer players. The onus is on the chairman here.

As for the rest of this quote. Anyone wish to explain to Luka what 'best solution for all concerned' means? It doesn't mean agreeing a transfer because the player wants one. Chelsea want you Luka? Get on the phone, have a word, tell them to start at £40M.

The threat part is tricky. Levy might well have explained that any player bringing the club and his contract into disrepute would be dealt with in the same manner. Do you see a problem with that? I don't. He can spend the whole season on the bench just to prove a point. A costly one. But he wont spend it there because he'll suck it up and perform for himself and the club.

> "I must say that I am genuinely disappointed about what Levy said to me. He didn't care about what I was telling him. It all only convinced me further that I was right to consider moving on to another club. I hope that eventually he will understand the situation and that we will reach an agreement and go our separate ways in an appropriate manner."

Hi.
Hello.
I want to leave Spurs.
Right.
Can I leave?
You're in a long term contract, you signed it very recently. Nobody has meet our valuation of you in terms of a transfer bid. And we also wish to retain your services, as per your contract.
I want to leave.
Close the door shut on your way out.

> Levy has a reputation for being a tough negotiator and there is no indication that he will back down. Modric's agent has suggested that his client will not lodge a transfer request to try to force the issue, which points to an impasse unless Chelsea make a substantial bid and Spurs accept there is nothing to be gained from keeping a player against his will.

That last bit is being touted as the probable conclusion. Can you see Levy going back on his words? Apologising that the situation has got to the point where player can no longer be retained? Honestly? Its about making a statement. The chairman's statement states that, no? If other clubs can hold onto a player under a long contract then we have to be seen to do the same. Otherwise, there's no point. Just get rid of Bale now so we're not put through the same saga next season.

Levy has made a stand. He simply can't be seen sitting down.

> "There is no doubt that Chelsea want me – they sent a concrete offer to Tottenham"

Concrete? More like Playdough. If Chelsea want the player, where is the renewed bid? Or is the plan to wait until the last day, with Luka protesting naked outside The Lodge refusing to train, before they table another £22M bid believing we'll do anything to get rid of him, even on the cheap?

Not going to happen. Words are cheap right? It's about actions and ones with substance. We've done our bit. We don't need to do anything else.

> "I know that the new Chelsea boss [André Villas-Boas] said he wants me in his team. Of course I am flattered by this interest in me – it's a club that all players dream of joining, fighting for every competition available."

Sorry what? Where? Did I miss this? Stinks of agent propaganda. No offence to Chelsea but 5-10 years ago players had never even heard of them. If you're going to leave, grow a set of balls, and let the missus know there is more than just London. Because that's the crux of it, isn't it? Head turned by CL (fair enough) only destination is Chelsea. Because anyone else would wish to perhaps aim slightly higher if they wished to jump from a small club like Spurs.

In conclusion:

Yes footballers have short careers and there's no wage cap so why not jump ship and go elsewhere and be given CL football without the concerns of having to chase it and then triple or even quadruple your earnings? All with the added bonus of elevating your stature in terms of exposure to continued top class football and silverware.

Clubs will continue to lose out to players. We'll continue to lose out, forever an easy access stepping stone. We have no choice but to make a stand. It's up to anyone wishing to employ Modric to call our bluff.

Modric will not sit on the bench. He'll play. All just empty threats to force us to give in and get rid. Hand in a transfer request. Make a genuine concrete bid for the player. Otherwise, just f*** off and shut up.

Exclusive footage of Daniel Levy and Luka Modric in 'angry' meeting

Another day, more love lost with regards to that once innocent fairy-like dinking Barca-like conductor of our midfield, Luka Modric. How quickly ones perception of someone can change. Very little can be lost in translation this time round.

I'm referring to his interview with the Croatian press (translated by ESPN and others) which makes it sound like he's already going to bed wearing a Chelsea shirt. Suddenly, Harry Redknapp's 'confused' comments from the other day appear to be quite relevant. Seems the gaffer doesn't hold too much faith in the player remaining with us post-season kick-off. Hence his continued disassociation with Levy's fair more sterner stance on the matter.

Seems to all hinge on this 'agreement' chairman and player made when the contract was signed. Player seems to think we should be negotiating no matter the derisory valuation on offer. My money is still on the chairman to be victorious. Although victorious might actually translate into a couple of things.

For now, this saga is not going to stop running any time soon.

Falling out of love with Luka Modric

Another month, more sickness. Shaking and shivering, my back is in absolute agony. Apparently my working day sit-down posture is the reason the viral infection has gone to town on my back muscles. I'm laying down in bed typing this on my i-phone, so hardly ideal. And best to apologise up front for what might (probably) turn out to be a less than perfect article in terms of crafted English. But don't feel sorry for me. I don't want any sympathy (it's actually tiresome how often I've been sick this summer). Keep that sympathy and bundle it up into a ball of hug, then embrace Luka Modric and pat him on his back, perhaps a kiss on each cheek. You know what I'm talking about. You've seen that type of hug on The Sopranos. Not the friendly hug. The other one. The 'goodbye hug because you're going to get whacked' hug. Not that Luka is about to walk into an empty basement with Daniel Levy pointing a gun to the back of his head.

There's no need for such fatalistic dramatics. A sit-down was enough to sort things out yesterday.

First thing I'm going to reference is Sky Sports and other members of the media (such as Shaun Custis). Daniel Levy could have pulled up in his Range Rover (it's a Rover, right?) holding the decapitated head of Modric and clearly stated, "He's never leaving Spurs. We've buried the rest of his body under the centre circle", but our esteemed friends with their relentless agenda would have updated their 'Modric time-line coverage' to tell the world that Luka was so desperate to get away, he decapitated himself and is blindly attempting to run to Stamford Bridge where he'll still be able to play, just not head the ball.

No matter what we do or say, they want to engineer a move way for the Croatian. Probably because it gives them something to write about, and in addition, how dare Levy buck the trend and not roll over.

Newspapers will always add negative spin because that's their agenda. They need to say something that will keep people reading/watching. It's just another form of entertainment.

What do we actually know about yesterday?

Before Luka arrived he's interviewed at an airport saying that he could not rule out a move to Chelsea. Two ways you can take this. He means it. Or he's told to say it so that when he arrives back in England and travels to WHL to meet Levy he can perhaps allow his agent to remain in the room after he leaves to negotiate an improved deal.

Wishful thinking considering he's already in a hefty contract and we have the upper hand.

If he means it, then it's still wishful thinking. He arrives at the Lane, he has his conversation, he leaves. Agent apparently does remain behind a little longer.

We then see SSN video footage of a rather smug Levy tell the reporter that Modric understands he won't be sold.

"We had a very good conversation and, as I've said previously, Luka Modric will not be sold"

Good conversation? One-sided good conversation? Good one-sided in favour of chairman?

"That's the end of it. As I said a few weeks ago, there's no further discussion on it"

So the conversation was simply a face-to-face sit-down reiterating what Levy has told the world via his club statement straight to Luka. You wont' be sold, end of.

"He's been on holiday but we've now had the conversation and he understands our position"

Modric 'understands', which means he accepts it.

"I'm just telling you what the position is - he won't be sold. I'm sure once he's back with his team-mates everything will be fine"

This to me might be an indication that although Modric understands and possibly even accepts the clubs standing, he's not happy with it. Levy ignored the question that attempted to gauge the player's opinion. He dismissed it. Which means he's dismissing any attempt by the player himself to force the club to give into any potential bid.

"It would make no difference. This is not about money. We're not selling our best players"

This is what it's about. 

We have to make a stand and we have to lead from the front in terms of throwing the punches rather than backing up into a corner and being bullied. A derisory bid is hardly going to turn our head. The perpetual bullsh*t from the 'journalists', simply laughable. If we take everything at face value, then Luka understands and will now concentrate on training and playing. He can help himself massively by telling us that he's committed to Tottenham for the season ahead. Get the majority back on his side. End the speculation once and for all. Because the longer it goes on, the more pressure/suggestion that he might pull a Berba and strike. Because that's one way to create disharmony within the club and force the club to sell. Although the big difference here is contract length and the fact that part of me believes Luka to be more honourable that Dimi.

I've just seen that Nikky Vuksan (Modric's agent) has said the player is unlikely to ask for a transfer. He'll honour his contract. Even though you still get the overwhelming feeling he's doing that because he has no choice in the matter. Agent also saying that 'fighting the club' is not something he and the player wish to do. I never believe anything an agent states, but I wouldn't be far wrong to suggest that Levy has asked both Modric and Vuksan to go get their shinebox.

This is where the love is lost for me.

The fact that I thought Luka was different. When in fact he's much more like Carrick. Model professional, committed, but when it was time to move on, he looked to do just that. Once more the stepping stone that is Spurs. Once more players not possessing the patience or loyalty that we would wish for them to have. Pressures of modern career football, pressure of what people want him to do back in Croatia, pressures of agent advice and the harsh reality that moving to a club cemented in CL is less work and far closer to silverware than playing in a side that wants to cement itself in CL.

Levy is pulling a master-stroke because we don't lose from this scenario. Okay, so let's say he goes on strike (highly unlikely post-agent statement) and makes his position untenable to the point where we simply can't hold onto him because it would detrimental to us and his valuation. He still won't be sold for anything less than £40M. If no bid is made, he stays. He will then have no choice to play and play well. A year is a long time in football. Suitors can move on, target wise, if form dips.

But Levy has said what he's said and this is no ploy to gain that £40M 'alleged' asking price. Transfer requests and sulking - on this occasion - will probably be dealt with by handing the player a cushion and a firm pointing to the bench. His international career will suffer. He knows it. More fool him for sigining a long term contract.

If he commits, plays and plays out of his skin - it's win, win again. Valuation remains high and we do well on the pitch. And a year is a long time in football. This time next summer we could be preparing ourselves for a season in the CL. He might be more than content to stay. If he's not, then we've got what we wanted out of him and we can reinvest our money.

If all of this has simply been about a renewed contract and nothing else (Rooneyesque style) then once more we can all shake our heads in unison that players believe themselves to be bigger than the clubs they play for. Or at least more important. Clubs are just vehicles for their progression.

Much like Rooney had to prove himself after his apparent lack of loyalty, Luka has to do the same. He's completely tainted the love I had for him. But I'm glad because it's reminded me that it's a rare occasion these days to find a player that epitomises the essence of the club. It's mostly fantasy unless you're a club that does not know of the struggles to reach and remain in the upper tier of your domestic league. Players will always come and go and we'll always get over it and move onto the next one because we are in love with Tottenham and occasional have one-night stands with the players (not literally, unless you're female and you frequent Faces nightclub).

In this instance, the club is bigger, far bigger than the player. And Luka will have to deal with that decisive fact and put this summer of discontent behind him and prove he's the player worthy not of a £40M price tag but one worthy to be wearing the Lilywhite shirt. The only thing that deserves worship.