Being the webmaster of one of the established unofficial sites, I feel an obligation to pass comment on the events of today. I tend to be an objective individual and try to report events as they happen, and not speculate on what might be, but today, I'll venture forth with the following quick remarks:-
The Board of THFC have acted decisively, fairly and correctly in my view in dismissing Spurs Legend Glenn Hoddle as manager of the football team. All of us will feel sorrow at the departure of a genuine Spurs legend in these circumstances, but I support fully the statement of Spurs Chairman Daniel Levy on the official site today. The sad facts speak for themselves, and results since January this year have been appalling, and if such form continued then we would be staring relegation in the face.
Glenn was supported fully as far as the budget of the club allowed in the summer, when we were the highest spenders behind Chelsea and Man Utd. Rightly or wrongly the board do not interfere with the manager's decisions as he does his job, but of course have the option (taken today) of passing judgement at any time.
No doubt this sacking is going to cost the club more money, as Glenn was only half-way through his contract, and also John Gorman is bound to leave too. However, I believe that to this board European football is paramount next season. They have chosen to act before the Coventry game, as they fear an embarrassing exit from the Carling Cup at the hands of lower opposition for the second year running. The board has chosen to act early, and no doubt will have a candidate or two in mind, to get on board as soon as possible.
Who might the next manager be? There will of course be lots of debate, but what is needed is someone who can motivate mature footballers, young up and coming players and one or two foreign prima donnas (no names here from me !). We need someone who can put fire in the bellies of the 11 men who will represent the glorious name of Tottenham Hotspur Football Club on the field of play; someone who can improve fitness levels, stamina and determination to succeed. That someone will hopefully want to play the game in the traditional Spurs way of entertainment and flair coming high on the agenda, but also being able to grind out results when necessary.
Who do I want to take the job? People talk of Martin O'Neill, but he has a club in the Champions League and I honestly believe his next port of call after Celtic will be none less than Manchester United. Harry Redknapp gets mentioned but I'm not so sure.
There are two names I fancy for the job. One is that of Raddy Antic, one time player for David Pleat in his Luton days in the 80s, and I believe a fairly successful coach in Spain a couple of years ago with Athletico Madrid.
The other name I fancy, and on balance would like to see in the manager's chair is Joe Kinnear. Joe is free, having fallen out with Luton in their traumatic summer. Joe has Spurs in his veins, and look what he did with moderate players at Wimbledon. Look at the spirit he maintained in that camp. Look what he did for third division Luton in a short space of time, getting them promotion and nearly making the second division play-offs last season.
Joe Kinnear may not have the stylish pedigree that many would like as the next manager, but we are not such a big club anymore. I am sure Joe would want the job, would shake up the playing and coaching staff, and provided he can keep medically fit himself, I am voting for Kinnear to take us the next step forward.
I must stress that these are my personal views and in no way represent any official view of the Tottenham Hotspur Supporters' Trust, who I am proud to serve as a board member.
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