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Tottenham signing Harry Kane was excited about 'wants to quit club'

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Tottenham signing Harry Kane was excited about 'wants to quit club' already - Daily Express
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Tottenham Hotspur forward Mathys Tel will reportedly consider a move away from the club in January. The 20-year-old finalised his loan move from Bayern Munich in a £30million permanent deal last summer, but has since found it tough under Thomas Frank.

After an initial six-month stint under former manager Ange Postecoglou, Tel has started only five matches this season, scoring three times. He was also omitted from Spurs' Champions League squad in September, but was reinstated in December to fill the gap left by the injured Dominic Solanke.

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And BBC Sport report that the forward is open to a loan this month in an attempt to make France's World Cup squad. Tel is yet to make an appearance for the senior French squad, but has made 20 appearances for the U21's - scoring 12 goals.

The reports come after Spurs legend Harry Kane previously stated his belief that Tel can go on to fulfil his potential at Tottenham after joining from Bayern Munich.

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Speaking in a chat with fans on the Cleats Club app back in February after Tel made the initial loan move, he said: “It is a great move for both parties. Mathys is a great guy, really hard-working and full of potential.

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“It will be important for him to get some minutes under his belt, get some regular game time and hopefully develop, keep improving and fulfil all the potential that he has.

“It’s great for Tottenham to have a young, hungry player with loads of talent to hopefully score some goals and help push Tottenham as far as possible.

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“I wish him all the best and hopefully he has a fantastic time there, I know he will. I am sure all the fans will make him feel really welcome as well.”

Tel previously revealed Kane had suggested Spurs would be a great environment to further develop his career.

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“He told me this is a big club with a lot of very good people,” Tel said on Tottenham's social media channels.

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“The pitch is very nice. The training centre is very good and if you go there, you can enjoy it. So everything was positive from Harry Kane.”

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Tottenham can sanction more than 5 transfers with Frank under pressure

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Tottenham could sanction more than 5 January transfers with Thomas Frank under pressure - Daily Express
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It’s been a tough start to life as Tottenham boss for Thomas Frank, with the pressure fully mounted on his shoulders. Spurs took a gamble by sacking Europa League-winning manager Ange Postecoglou, and so far it doesn’t look as if it’s paid off.

That could be about to change in the January transfer window, given the expectation is that the Spurs hierarchy will back Frank in the January window. If they do pull their chequebook out, Express Sport have detailed some of the moves that Frank and co. could be sanctioned at Spurs this month.

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Jorgen Strand Larsen

Having been subject to transfer interest from Newcastle United in the summer, it looks even more likely that Wolves will lose Jorgen Strand Larsen, given their precarious position towards the bottom of the Premier League table. Whether that’s in January or the summer remains to be seen, but talk about a potential switch to Spurs has started to pick up in recent weeks. With just 30 goals scored in 21 Premier League matches so far this season, it’s understandable that the north Londoners are eyeing up attacking reinforcements.

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Savinho

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Speaking of which, had things worked out differently for Savinho in the summer, he might’ve already found himself playing for Spurs. Instead, a proposed move to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium fell through, meaning he was forced to stick around at Manchester City instead. However, Pep Guardiola’s side have shown their intentions this month by bringing Antoine Semenyo to the club, meaning minutes could be limited for Savinho when he returns from injury. Perhaps Spurs could take advantage by reviving their interest in the Brazil ace.

Radu Dragusin

One of the players signed during Postecoglou’s reign, Radu Dragusin hasn’t lived up to expectations so far, with talk about a move away now beginning to pick up. Roma are among the sides to have piqued their interest, which makes sense given Dragusin caught the eye in Serie A with Genoa before making the move to Spurs.

Andriy Lunin

Meanwhile, Real Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin has emerged as a genuine contender to join Tottenham in the mid-season transfer window. The Los Blancos back-up is said to be keen to secure regular football, with Spurs rumoured to be willing to give the Ukrainian international what he’s after.

Guglielmo Vicario

That would likely spell the end for Guglielmo Vicario, who has been shaky at times between the sticks. Despite playing the most minutes in the Premier League out of any Spurs player, Inter Milan are being spoken about as a potential destination for the Italian shot-stopper.

Dane Scarlet

And finally, to wrap up what would prove to be a busy January, Dane Scarlet could find himself heading out on loan for some much-needed minutes. He's featured just once in the Premier League all season, mustering up only four appearances across all competitions in general. Set to turn 22 in March, Scarlet might not want to sit by and watch his developmental years go by the wayside.

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Micky van de Ven 'wants to leave Tottenham' in transfer bombshell

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Micky van de Ven 'desperately wants to leave Tottenham' as huge transfer bombshell dropped - Daily Express
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Tottenham may face a battle to keep hold of star defender Micky van de Ven this summer. That's according to Spanish media reports, suggesting the player is "desperate to leave" the North London club.

Barcelona are reportedly on the hunt for a high-profile defensive signing. Catalan daily Sport has named Inter Milan's Alessandro Bastoni as their primary target, but they're also monitoring Marc Guehi at Crystal Palace and Borussia Dortmund's Nico Schlotterbeck. However, Barcelona are reluctant to meet Inter's alleged £69million asking price for Bastoni. This has led them to consider Van de Ven, with Sport claiming the Dutchman is keen on a move away from Spurs this summer. Interestingly, the same report suggests Van de Ven "would be delighted to wear the Barca colours." Any rumours of the Netherlands international wanting to depart Tottenham seem baseless, hinting at potential string-pulling behind the scenes.

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While Van de Ven's stint at Spurs hasn't been the string of success some might have hoped for, it's far from a flop. After his transfer from Wolfsburg for an initial fee of £34.5million in the summer of 2023, the Dutchman quickly established himself as a key figure in defence.

Van de Ven, who recently had a run-in with Spurs fans following defeat at Bournemouth, was crowned Tottenham's Player of the Season in his debut English campaign. He then played a crucial role in helping the club clinch Europa League glory in his second season.

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Thomas Frank's side continue to underperform in the Premier League and have already exited the League Cup. However, they've shown potential in Europe and are vying for an automatic spot in the Champions League's last 16, currently sitting above Barca in the group standings.

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Despite Tottenham's less-than-stellar defensive record, the centre-back duo of Van de Ven and Cristian Romero has won many plaudits. Yet it's possible Spurs may find it challenging to keep Van de Ven - who has previously been linked with Real Madrid - focused if a giant like Barcelona shows interest.

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That said, there's scant evidence to suggest the player is actively seeking a move, especially not as early as this summer. The 24-year-old's contract is set to run until the summer of 2028, meaning Tottenham are under no immediate pressure to sell unless the player agitates for a transfer.

There's also the question of whether Barcelona could afford the transfer fee. While Van de Ven may have joined Spurs for a little under £40m, the north London club would undoubtedly demand a significantly higher sum to part ways with him now.

As Barcelona continue with their expensive Camp Nou refurbishments, there may also be doubts about whether they can afford to make such a deal. The club's financial situation has been a hot topic in recent years, and signing Van de Ven could stretch their budget further than they're prepared to go.

The allure of a tall, powerful, left-footed defender who has consistently topped the Premier League's speed charts is clear. However, reports from the Spanish media suggesting Van de Ven is eager for a move to Catalonia may not be as straightforward as they seem.

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Tottenham star Cristian Romero hit with ban as FA issue statement

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Tottenham star Cristian Romero hit with ban as FA issue statement after Liverpool incident - Daily Express
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Cristian Romero has received a one-match suspension following an altercation with the match official during Tottenham Hotspur's 2-1 loss to Liverpool last month. The Spurs captain was shown a second yellow card by referee John Broons and has been found to have 'acted improperly toward the match official.

The red card saw him serve a one match suspension in the 1-0 win over Crystal Palace last month. The FA have now, however, confirmed that he will serve a ban for another match due to his behaviour, meaning he will miss this weekend's FA Cup third round clash against Aston Villa.

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An FA spokesperson confirmed: "Cristian Romero has been sanctioned in relation to the Premier League fixture between Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool on Saturday 20 December 2025.

"It was alleged that he acted improperly around the 93rd minute by failing to leave the field of play promptly and/or behaving in a confrontational and/or aggressive manner towards the referee.

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"The defender subsequently admitted the charge, and an independent Regulatory Commission has now imposed a one-match suspension and £50,000 fine after a hearing. The Regulatory Commission's written reasons for these sanctions will be published in due course."

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Following the game against Liverpool, Spurs boss Thomas Frank was not happy with the decision to show Romero two yellow cards. “The second red we got on the wrong end too," he said. “There’s probably a reason why the whole team reacts as they do.

"Normally, if it's one player reacting, if it's the whole team, probably because there's something about it. I think we all played football enough and seen enough football that there's something probably around that.

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"So, I can't see if it's right or wrong that he gives the first yellow. The second yellow, I see two big boys competing; Konate absolutely smashing through Cuti [Romero]. It's a foul, I'm not saying more.

"His foot landed on Cuti's head. Not a yellow, I'm not saying that. Cuti makes a reaction. I think I guess it can be given, but also I guess it can be not given.”

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The ban comes after Romero appeared to hit out at Tottenham's hierarchy in a now-edited social media post following the team's 3-2 loss against Bournemouth on Wednesday night. When questioned about the post, Frank made it clear that the captain will not face any disciplinary action and will retain the club captaincy.

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He said: "I think there are a lot of ways to deal with different situations. We've chosen to have a good conversation with him, understand where he stands, handle it internally and that's everything I have to say."

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Romero slams Spurs 'lies' from club chiefs in social media tirade

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Cristian Romero slams Tottenham 'lies' from club chiefs in social media tirade - Daily Express
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Cristian Romero delivered a heartfelt message to Tottenham Hotspur fans following their 3-2 defeat to Bournemouth, criticising "lies" from the club's leadership in a post that has since been amended. Spurs suffered a loss during their Premier League clash at the Vitality Stadium on Wednesday evening.

It appeared as though Tottenham had salvaged a draw on the south coast after Joao Palhinha netted a late equaliser for Thomas Frank's team. But Antoine Semenyo then hit what turned out to be Bournemouth's winning goal during injury time, inflicting another setback on Spurs.

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Thomas Frank's side have now suffered defeat in three of their last six Premier League fixtures, securing victory in just one game during that period, leaving them in 14th position in the standings. Romero featured for the full 90 minutes for Tottenham and has since offered an apology to Spurs fans, while also taking aim at the club's leadership.

"Apologies to all fans of you who follow us everywhere, who are always there and will continue to be," Romero posted on Instagram to his 5.1 million followers. "We are responsible, there’s no doubt about that. I am the first.

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"But we will keep facing up to it and trying to turn the situation around, for ourselves and for the club.

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"At times like this, it should be other people coming out to speak, but they don't - as has been happening for several years now. They only show up when things are going well.

"We'll stay here, working, sticking together and giving our all to turn things around. Especially at times like this, keeping quiet, working harder and moving forward all together, is part of football.

"All together, it will be easier."

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Yet a section of the message has since then been amended. The original wording stated: "At times like this, it should be other people coming out to speak, but they don't - as has been happening for several years now. They only show up when things are going well, to tell a few lies."

The concluding sentence has since been altered to omit the accusaton about lies being told. Romero's statement received over 90,000 likes and drew responses from several Spurs colleagues.

Pedro Porro replied (in a translated message): "Amen. Keep going, brother. We have a lot of battles left." Meanwhile, Richarlison also weighed in on the post, simply adding a clapping hands emoji.

Following the match, Frank discussed why he felt Tottenham performed admirably against Bournemouth despite the loss, whilst also identifying areas requiring improvement.

"I think it's very tough to sit here right now and we haven't got anything out of a good performance," Frank said. "I think we started well, got up 1-0, conceding two goals on second phase set-pieces. Especially that second one - we needed to do much better. But I really liked the character in the team and from the players, they gave everything.

"The second half, I think we were completely on top, and keep going even through disappointments and small setbacks, which we talked about before. Work very, very hard with the players and the team on that.

"Don't score inside the post from Richie [Richarlison], overturn the penalty, keep going, getting the equaliser, 2-2.

"After that, I think we are closer to winning than Bournemouth are. With the Micky [Van de Ven] header, with all the good opportunities. So, to sit here and concede in five, six minutes of extra time is very painful, very tough. But that's football."

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Tottenham have 5 options to replace Frank after latest embarrasment

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Tottenham have 5 options to replace Thomas Frank after latest embarrassment vs Bournemouth - Daily Express
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Thomas Frank is under serious pressure at Tottenham and their latest defeat, 3-2 away to struggling Bournemouth, only compounded the misery surrounding the club. His style of play has been criticised and results have not helped soften the blow. His time may be running out, despite the club trying to stress patience.

However, even in the past few days, top operators have become available if Spurs do wish to part ways with Frank. Here, Express Sport has taken a look at the options they have in order to get their season back on track.

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Oliver Glasner

Spurs supporters may shudder at the thought of another well-performing manager at a rival London club taking over, again.

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But Oliver Glasner has proven more capable of playing on the front foot at Crystal Palace than Frank had at Brentford, and won major silverware doing so.

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He is out of contract at the end of the season and Spurs may yet be able to re-enter the Marc Guehi race, with Glasner at the helm.

Marco Silva

Marco Silva is a name that just won’t go away when it comes to future Spurs managers.

And it’s easy to see why as he continues to perform with his rag-tag Fulham squad.

Spurs can only dream of the lofty eighth-placed position that Fulham currently sit and it may be time for Silva to get a chance at a ‘Big Six’ club in the Premier League.

Enzo Maresca

Hiring a former Chelsea boss may leave a bad taste in the mouth of many Spurs fans, but Enzo Maresca is a coach with plenty of pedigree and his backers will claim that he was hard done by at Stamford Bridge.

He clashed with the bigwigs at Chelsea but it could be Spurs who benefit from the decision to axe the Italian.

Maresca is on the lookout for a new gig and he has the opportunity to remain in London, with a Champions League club, who offer him the chance to get one over on his former employers. Revenge does taste the sweetest.

Ruben Amorim

Deep down, Spurs actually have a squad pretty well suited to Ruben Amorim.

There are more than three top-quality centre-backs at the club and plenty of all-action wing-backs in Pedro Porro, Destiny Udogie and Djed Spence.

The lack of midfield quality in possession could be hidden by Amorim’s preference to move the ball through the flanks, where Spurs have a number of wingers who enjoy operating in central areas.

It might just be the perfect match.

Roberto De Zerbi

Roberto De Zerbi has lit up Ligue 1 with Marseille, had them competing for the title with Paris Saint-Germain last year and restored the fallen giants to their previous glory.

He has enjoyed previous success in the Premier League with Brighton and his style of football is the polar opposite to Frank’s.

The 46-year-old could bring smiles back to the faces at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

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Tottenham player ratings vs Bournemouth: One 3/10 and two 4s in woeful loss

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Tottenham player ratings vs Bournemouth: One 3/10 and two 4s as Thomas Frank rocked again - Daily Express
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Tottenham suffered a thrilling 3-2 loss to Bournemouth on Wednesday night, and despite being unbeaten in their last three games, the visitors couldn't shake off their 'Dr Tottenham' label as they faced a Bournemouth side that hadn't tasted victory since October.

Mathys Tel reaped the rewards of consecutive starts within the first five minutes. The young Frenchman, set up by a clever backheel from Xavi, cut in from the left wing and drove a low shot into the bottom right corner of the goal. The hosts equalised in the 22nd minute when Evanilson found himself unmarked in front of Tottenham captain Cristian Romero and headed home Marcus Tavernier's cross.

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Nine minutes before half-time, Bournemouth seized the lead due to more lacklustre defending from Spurs. A Tavernier cross from the left reached Marcos Senesi at the far post, who squared it for Junior Kroupi to blast into the net.

Richarlison, coming on as a substitute, nearly equalised with a header that hit the post with 20 minutes left in the match. A penalty was awarded shortly after when Micky van de Ven's lengthy run ended with him falling in the box, but referee Darren England, after consulting his monitor, ruled there was no foul as it appeared the Dutchman's leg had hooked the defender's.

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However, the equaliser did arrive at the 78-minute mark, courtesy of a spectacular overhead kick from Palhinha following a corner.

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Spurs almost clinched the win with Van de Ven's header, which was saved by Djordje Petrovic at full stretch. But it was Antoine Semenyo who secured the victory, firing a low shot from outside the box in added time in what is expected to be his final game for the club before transferring to Manchester City.

Here are our player ratings for Spurs from the match...

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Guglielmo Vicario

Despite not being able to do much about Evanilson's precise header or Kroupi's close-range effort, and despite Semenyo's shot finding the bottom corner, Vicario's kicking was subpar. 5.

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Pedro Porro

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Caught out of position on the left for Bournemouth's equaliser, giving Tavernier ample time to cross. Back on his usual side, he was nowhere near anyone for the second goal.

He received a yellow card for a late tackle on Evanilson in the second half. It was a challenging night for him. 4.

Cristian Romero

Sent a header over the crossbar from a corner midway through the first half. Lost Evanilson for the hosts' equaliser.

Was defensively weak in the first half but improved significantly in the second, making some crucial challenges and proving to be a formidable presence during set pieces in the Bournemouth box. Nearly set up Tel for a late equaliser. 7.

Micky van de Ven

Made some careless passes in the first half. Thought he'd secured a penalty in the second half only for VAR to step in, suggesting that he had tripped the defender rather than vice versa.

Received a yellow card for his objections. Had a header brilliantly saved by Petrovic in the final 10 minutes. 6.

Djed Spence

Attempted to create opportunities down the left but failed to connect with Tavernier's cross for the second goal. Some sloppy touches on the run in the second half. 6.

Joao Palhinha

Performed solidly until he produced something extraordinary with a stunning overhead kick to level the score. 7.

Rodrigo Bentancur

At times he covers others so well but equally is so poor in possession at others, gifting the home side the ball in dangerous areas especially in the first half. Improved as the second half progressed before being substituted due to injury in the final five minutes of normal time. 4.

Lucas Bergvall

Took an early long-range shot that the goalkeeper collected on the second try. Around the half-hour mark, he curled a shot just over the crossbar.

Worked diligently but seemed to sustain a groin injury after an awkward twist and exited the game after repeatedly pounding the ground in frustration. 6.

Xavi Simons

Back in action after missing three games, he immediately contributed with an assist, backheeling into Tel's run. Started the match strongly but lost momentum after Bournemouth's two first-half goals. 6.

Mathys Tel

Started energetically, cutting inside just five minutes into the game to strike a low shot into the far corner. He was Spurs' standout player in the first half, consistently attacking down the left flank and causing problems for Bournemouth.

Delivered some threatening set pieces in the second half and had a late opportunity but was too exhausted to capitalise. 7.

Randal Kolo Muani

Received very little service and did virtually nothing when he did get the ball. 3.

Subs

Wilson Odobert

Brought some forward drive after replacing the injured Bergvall. 6.

Richarlison

Hit the post with a header and posed problems for the Cherries. 6.

Archie Gray

Came on for Bentancur in the final moments. N/A.

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Tottenham and England hero Martin Chivers dies aged 80 as tributes pour in

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Tottenham and England icon Martin Chivers dies aged 80 as tributes pour in - Daily Express
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Tottenham legend and former England striker Martin Chivers has died at the age of 80. Chivers was one of Spurs' greatest-ever players and sits third on their list of all-time top goalscorers. He scored 202 times in 415 appearances and also hit the back of the net on 13 occasions for his country in 24 caps.

Chivers began his career with boyhood club Southampton and helped guide them to the First Division, scoring 30 goals in 39 games in the 1965/66 season. He scored 106 goals in 190 appearances in total before joining Spurs in 1968 for a club record fee of £125,000.

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Chivers helped Spurs to two League Cup wins and also lifted the UEFA Cup in 1972, scoring twice in the 2-1 first-leg win over Wolves. During his time at Spurs, he earned his first call-up to England and went on to make 24 appearances for his country.

He enjoyed a fruitful spell at Swiss club Servette, where he spent two years, before playing for the likes of Norwich and Brighton before retiring at Barnet in 1983.

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After hanging up his boots, Chivers commentated for BBC Radio and was a host at Tottenham matches. In 2007, he was inducted into the club's Hall of Fame.

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Tottenham will wear black armbands in tribute to Chivers for their match at Bournemouth on Wednesday evening.

Tottenham issued a statement confirming his passing, which read: "It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of our legendary former striker, Martin Chivers.

"We extend our deepest sympathies to Martin’s family, friends and former team-mates at this incredibly sad time. Our players will wear black armbands during this evening’s fixture against AFC Bournemouth. Rest in peace, Martin. One of the all-time greats."

Steve Archibald, who won the FA Cup twice with Spurs, led the tributes to a club great. He wrote on social media: “Watched the great Martin Chivers before I became a pro, was an amazing watch, he was like Rolls Royce, so smooth in his movement, excellent in the air and a great finisher, but on top of all of that he was a really nice guy. Most sincere condolences to all of Martin’s family xxx.”

Former Spurs and Chelsea midfielder Micky Hazard wrote: "Unbelievably sad news, a Legend of Tottenham Hotspur Football Club, a Legend of the Game of football, a Legend full stop. Thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this very sad time. Rest in Peace Martin you will be sorely missed."

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Tottenham CEO's stance on sacking Thomas Frank as Ruben Amorim becomes available

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Thomas Frank believes Tottenham chief executive Vinai Venkatesham's time working alongside Mikel Arteta at Arsenal has helped him secure patience from a club historically known for its trigger-happy approach to managers. Premier League bosses are being sacked at an alarming rate currently, with Ruben Amorim and Enzo Maresca departing Manchester United and Chelsea respectively within a matter of days.

Before Spurs' trip on Wednesday evening to Bournemouth, some supporters have demanded their 13th-placed side make a similar change following an underwhelming beginning under Frank, who has overseen just two victories in their last 11 top-flight matches.

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Yet, despite being a club that has typically cycled through managers with remarkable frequency under previous chairman Daniel Levy, there is fresh leadership at the helm in Venkatesham.

He was among the influential decision-makers at Arsenal who demonstrated faith in Arteta during some challenging initial campaigns and believed the Spaniard required sufficient time to establish his vision.

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Six years later and the Gunners sit six points clear at the Premier League summit, and Frank is convinced he is reaping the rewards of Venkatesham's understanding gained during those formative years across North London with Arsenal.

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"Definitely [that has informed the way he acts]. No doubt about that. He also knows what good looks like and how, unfortunately, it can take time to get up to where good should look like," the 52-year-old explained. "That's definitely beneficial because he understands the journey we're on.

"Vinai is one of the best communicators I ever met, as a CEO, leader, he is absolutely excellent in that. I think I'm ok but he is way superior which I think is crucial internally and externally. He's calm and takes sensible decisions, two rare abilities in football, but also two absolutely crucial abilities if you want to have success long term.

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"My experience is very limited. As I understood, he was the one that was signing off and negotiating the final bit [with transfers]. He will not do that now, that will be more down to Johan [Lange] and Fabio [Paratici]," the head coach explained.

"We have a good recruitment side with the numbers behind it, looking at the players and then taking the right decision. Then it's down to Johan and Fabio to do the job with the agents and get the deals done. That's the biggest difference."

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Despite their struggles this season, Frank maintains that Spurs are still an appealing prospect for transfer targets this window, with a new left winger and left-back on the wish list and potentially another midfielder and centre-back depending on departures. "We are very attractive in many ways. Spurs is a fantastic club with huge potential," he asserted.

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"Of course if we compete against the three teams that are clearly ahead of us - City, Arsenal and Liverpool - unfortunately those three clubs are probably more attractive right now. That's not to say we can't attract some of the players that also want to go to those clubs. It depends if there is a spot available for the player to play in those clubs and here.

"Regrettably, those three clubs are likely more appealing at the moment. That's not to say we can't attract some of the players that also want to go to those clubs. It depends if there is a spot available for the player to play in those clubs and here."

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Tottenham confirm second January transfer as club make £35m announcement

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Tottenham have confirmed the exit of Brennan Johnson. The 24-year-old forward, who was signed from Nottingham Forest in September 2023 for a hefty £47.5million, has moved to Crystal Palace in a record-breaking deal for the club. Johnson made 106 appearances for Spurs, netting 27 goals and setting up 18 more. The Welsh international played a crucial role in Tottenham's UEFA Europa League triumph in May 2025, scoring a close-range goal in the final at San Mames Stadium.

Under Ange Postecoglou's management, Johnson was a pivotal figure in the team. Despite his stellar performances, contributing to at least 15 goals in each of his last two Premier League seasons, he found it challenging to secure a spot in Thomas Frank's starting eleven. Although Johnson featured 22 times under the Danish manager, he only clocked up around 900 minutes of play. Frank favoured Mohammed Kudus, a player Tottenham acquired from West Ham for an initial £50m in July 2025.

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Johnson was told by the club's top brass on New Year's Eve that he was no longer needed. The Welshman drew attention from clubs such as Bournemouth, Everton, Aston Villa, and Newcastle United before Crystal Palace swooped in to seal the deal.

It is believed that Crystal Palace shelled out £35m for Johnson, whom Steve Parish has labelled an 'exciting young talent'. Speaking to the club's media, the Eagles' chairman expressed: "I'm delighted that Brennan has joined us at Crystal Palace.

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"An exciting young talent with an excellent recent record in domestic, continental and international football. We feel we are the perfect place for Brennan to continue his already impressive journey, and his arrival bolsters our attacking options in what is proving our busiest season to date, competing on numerous fronts including, for the first time, in Europe."

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Crystal Palace's head coach, Oliver Glasner, has hailed Johnson as a 'valuable addition'. He expressed: "I'm really delighted that Brennan has joined the club. He arrives very early in the window, so credit to the club for making this happen so quickly.

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"Brennan will give us options in our attacking play with his pace and goalscoring ability and with all the upcoming games he will be a valuable addition to the squad."

On his part, Johnson shared his excitement about joining Crystal Palace: "I'm really excited and I'm really happy. Crystal Palace are such a great club, one that I've always admired. It's a great time for me to be here and join the journey that this club is on – I'm super excited."

The former Tottenham winger, who has signed a four-and-a-half year deal with Crystal Palace, will be ready for selection for Sunday afternoon's match against Newcastle United at St. James' Park. Johnson will don the number-11 shirt.

Before the official announcement of the transfer, Frank was asked about Johnson's future. The Dane, keeping his thoughts under wraps, commented: "I think there are different scenarios.

"There are players that want to leave, there are players that are a little bit like, hmm, do they want to stay or do they want to leave? And then there are players that don't want to leave.

"And that is the three different cases you need to solve between the sports directors, head coach, player and agent. And hopefully in the most cases, everyone is happy in the end of the situation."

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