Spurs Riding High

This is a good time to be a Spurs fan. A time of real optimism about the future and the first time in many years that the club can be regarded as genuine rivals to Arsenal.

It shows in the premiership table. With a little more than half the matches played, Tottenham Hotspur stand 4th in the table, one place and six points ahead of the Gunners, who have a game in hand. And on recent form it would not be unduly premature to suggest that Europe beckons.

It shows in the depth, youth, quality and consistency of the squad. The outstanding form of the England goalkeeper Paul Robinson. In front of him, the majestic Ledley King and 23 year old England U21 international Michael Dawson. A midfield which includes the world class experience of Edgar Davids, coupled with the elegant Michael Carrick, the highly-rated Jermaine Jenas and the exciting Aaron Lennon. And up front, the power of Mido and the mercurial skills of Robbie Keane, who is playing well enough at present to keep Defoe out of the starting line-up.

Above all, it shows in the thorough undemonstrative way manager Martin Jol has stamped his authority on the club and the ambition Spurs have shown in responding to the loss of Sporting Director Frank Arnesen to Chelsea by recruiting 33 year old Damien Comolli – a former Technical Director at St Etienne and, significantly, for seven seasons Arsenal’s European scout.

Given his pedigree, Comolli could prove to be the most impressive signing of all.