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David Pleat has had an influential hand in shaping Tottenham Hotspur over the last four decades, and among the many signings he recommended, a couple stand out as particular favourites.

David Pleat’s Tottenham legacy

David Pleat’s association with Tottenham Hotspur stretches back many years, where he has served in several capacities: from manager to scout and even as Director of Football.

His influence on the club has been undeniable, not just through his direct involvement in team management but also in scouting players who went on to become some of Tottenham’s greatest assets.

During his time, Pleat was instrumental in bringing in a range of talent that propelled Tottenham forward, including players like Dele Alli, Jermain Defoe, and Heung-Min Son, to name just a few.

Whether it was identifying rising stars from the English Football League or making deals with other top-tier clubs, his scouting efforts were crucial to the club’s success.

However, what set him apart was his understanding of the long-term vision for Tottenham, where his focus wasn’t simply on acquiring players, but on building a team that would thrive for years to come.

The story of Robbie Keane’s £7m transfer

In a recent interview on The View from the Lane podcast, Pleat was asked about the signings he was most proud of, and without hesitation, he said: “I was very happy to bring in Jermain Defoe, and I was very happy to bring in Mr Keane from Leeds United.

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“The last one before I left and came back again was the goalkeeper, Robinson, he went on to play for England. In more recent times, Dele Alli, I watched Son, I watched Eriksen twice in Holland.”

Pleat named Keane among his favourite signings for Spurs and his arrival at Tottenham wasn’t just a stroke of luck—it was Pleat’s intuition at work. While other clubs might have hesitated, Pleat knew that Keane was the right fit for Spurs, and his performances over the years proved that judgment right.

Keane quickly established himself as a fan favourite at White Hart Lane, not only because of his goal-scoring ability but also due to his passion and work ethic on the pitch. He was the kind of player that Pleat always admired—someone who didn’t just rely on talent but also on heart and determination.

His assessment of these signings paints a picture of a man deeply invested in the club’s history and success, even as he reflects on the missed opportunities that have haunted Tottenham over the years.

Tottenham’s missed opportunities and Pleat’s scouting genius

While David Pleat is celebrated for the signings he made, there have been moments where his advice wasn’t heeded, leading to missed opportunities for Tottenham.

One notable instance was his recommendation to sign Jarrod Bowen when the winger was still at Hull City, a move that Tottenham declined. Similarly, Pleat had advised Spurs to sign Ivan Toney before he became a star at Brentford, another decision that was overlooked by the club’s hierarchy (Athletic).

These missed chances only highlight how invaluable Pleat’s insight has been over the years. His ability to identify talent before it became mainstream is something that sets him apart from many of his contemporaries.

As he steps away from his official role, the hope remains that Tottenham will continue to value the wisdom of its long-serving scouts, combining their expertise with the analytical tools at their disposal to create a more balanced and effective approach to signing future talents.

In an age where football increasingly celebrates data, the timeless instinct of a seasoned scout like Pleat is a resource that Tottenham must not overlook if they are to keep signing exciting young talents.

Paul Gascoigne’s manager has clarified the Tottenham legend’s recent comments about being charged heavily for tickets by the North London club.

Paul Gascoigne’s comments sparked outrage

Gazza revealed in an interview with Football 365 that Tottenham charge him for match tickets unlike another of his former clubs, Rangers.

He said: “If they’re at home, definitely. It’s difficult, that one. I was so close to Rangers. At Rangers, I’m welcomed in every way and at Tottenham, I asked for a couple of tickets and they said ‘That’ll be 400 pounds each.’ I was like, wow, with all I did for that club, you know?”

This understandably caused a lot of anger among some Tottenham fans on social media, who felt that this was no way to treat a club legend.

Comments have now been clarified

However, Gazza’s manager, Katie Davies, has now explained that the 57-year-old does indeed get a free ticket for Tottenham matches.

She insisted that it was his associates who were charged, adding that the Lilywhites have offered a lot of support to their former star over the years.

Davies told Standard Sport: “In relation to the tickets, these were intended for associates of Paul and not for himself – Paul has never been charged by the club for a ticket to come to a match. We hope this draws a line under any misunderstanding on this matter and a positive dialogue is maintained moving forward.”

Damage already done

While this clarification was needed, one can argue that the bad PR from the interview has already done a lot of damage to the reputation of the Tottenham hierarchy.

A section of the Spurs fan base despises Daniel Levy and they are unlikely to believe Davies’ correction as they are convinced that the Tottenham supremo has set a poor culture at the club.

According to reports, Tottenham are looking to add reinforcements to central defence and could even look to raid one of their fierce rivals Chelsea in January.

Spurs in need of central defenders?

Ange Postecoglou has only three out-and-out central defenders at his disposal at the minute in the form of Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven and Radu Dragusin.

However, Ben Davies has shown that he is capable of slotting into that role comfortably why while young Archie Gray has also been used in the heart of defence by the Spurs boss.

It has now emerged that Tottenham could potentially look to poach young, up-and-coming centre-back, Josh Acheampong, from Stamford Bridge.

Tottenham plot move for Chelsea man

According to The Independent, Spurs have shown an interest in securing the services of Acheampong, who broke into the Blues starting lineup last season under Mauricio Pochettino, making his debut against the Lilywhties.

However, it is revealed that the 18-year-old is also attracting interest from the likes of Liverpool and Newcastle United, while clubs from around the continent are also eyeing him.

One of these is thought to be Real Madrid, who have reportedly held a long-standing interest in the young centre-back.

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Chelsea’s stance on Acheampong

Meanwhile, TBR Football have relayed this report and provided their own information on the matter.

The publication reveals that Chelsea sources have made it clear that they have no intention of allowing Acheampong to leave in the January window.

In fact, the Blues are allegedly intent on tying their academy graduate down to a new contract, with Enzo Maresca said to be delighted with his development.

Tottenham and Arsenal could go head-to-head for an attacking midfielder who is considered to be among the best young talents in Europe.

Spurs want to sign up-and-coming midfielder

We are referring to Georgiy Sudakov, who has won many admirers with his performances for Shakhtar Donetsk over the last year and a half.

He is now garnering even more attention in light of his impressive start to the season, and in particular, his exciting displays in the Champions League.

It was reported a few days ago by Football Insider that Tottenham are doing their ‘due diligence’ on the 22-year-old ahead of the January window.

Spurs set for a transfer battle?

The same report also claimed that Manchester City are also fans of Sudakov and are eying the youngster as a potential long-term replacement for Kevin de Bruyne.

Now, TuttoJuve have also backed up Tottenham’s interest in the Shakhtar star but they suggest that the Lilywhites’ biggest competitors for the youngster’s signature might be Arsenal.

The outlet claims that the two North London clubs are the teams showing the most interest in the midfielder ahead of the winter.

Deal not easy to do

However, it is explained that it would not be easy to bring Sudakov to the Premier League, with Shakhtar expected to play hardball.

It is asserted that the Ukrainian side will expect a considerable fee if they are to be convinced to part ways with their talisman mid-season.

Former Tottenham scout Mick Brown is sceptical about the reports backing the Lilywhites to make a move for one England midfielder.

Tottenham to be involved in transfer battle for 24-year-old?

The player in question is Angel Gomes, who has turned quite a lot of heads with his performances for Lille over the last few years.

The midfielder’s stock has grown even further in light of his impressive displays for England under Lee Carsley, and it has been suggested that Tottenham are now ready to offer the player a route back to the Premier League.

However, according to GiveMeSport, Spurs could face major competition from the likes of Manchester United, Aston Villa and Newcastle United for the player’s signature.

Former Spurs scout not convinced about transfer

Mick Brown, who has worked as a scout for the likes of Tottenham, Manchester United and Aston Villa, and remains well-connected in the game, has now cast doubt on these rumours.

He suggested that signing another attacking midfielder is unlikely to be a priority for Ange Postecoglou in January.

When asked about Spurs’ rumoured interest in Gomes, Brown told Football Insider: “I don’t think Tottenham are among those interested. They’ve already got James Maddison who can play a similar role. I would see those two as being not too dissimilar.

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“I know Gomes plays a bit deeper but we’ve seen Maddison drop into that space in recent games. They’re both players who want to see a lot of the ball and look to make things happen, they’re clever passers and good in possession. I’d be surprised if Tottenham made a move for Gomes because of that.”

Tottenham do need a number eight

Postecoglou has tweaked his formation a little this season as he no longer uses a number ten. Instead, he uses two number eights, with both James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski given the freedom to drop deep to pick up the ball.

However, Tottenham are lacking cover for those two players, with none of Pape Sarr, Rodrigo Bentancur or Yves Bissouma being natural fits for that role, while Lucas Bergvall is not yet the finished product.

It would thus make sense for the North London club to add another energetic attacking midfielder to their squad of Gomes’ mould.

A new report claims there is now a significant likelihood of Tottenham losing one of their most important players over the coming transfer windows.

Comments about future are fuelling transfer speculation

The strongest indicator that a Tottenham player is performing well is when one of the biggest clubs in Europe begins to show interest.

Earlier in the international break an interview with Pedro Porro in Relevo mentioned that Real Madrid hold a growing interest in the Tottenham fullback, with Dani Carvajal set for an extended period out with injury.

Porro said: “Of course, I’m proud with these links, it means I’m doing things well. If that happens one day, it happens. Now I’m fully focused on my club, Tottenham.”

Madrid seem to have their eyes set on the Premier League for a new right-back with reports of them also appreciating Trent Alexander-Arnold (Athletic) and Reece James (SPORT).

While Porro did state he was ‘focused and comfortable’ at Tottenham, his pleasure at being appreciated by Madrid has brought scrutiny. Furthermore, reports from other parts of Europe are now adding to speculation over Porro’s future, suggesting it is already a matter of when.

Pedro Porro to be sold within a year

An Inter Live report is now suggesting that it is ‘very likely’ that Tottenham accept a bid from Real Madrid and Pedro Porro will make his exit, either in January or next summer.

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The likelihood of Porro’s departure appears to be a culmination of Real Madrid’s interest and the Spaniard taking their pursuit of him as praise. However, no official bid has been made and there has been no suggestion from Tottenham that they would even entertain an offer for their defender.

Daniel Levy is a fierce negotiator and with three years remaining on Porro’s contract, Tottenham would surely be looking for a sum well above the reported €45m they paid for him when he joined from Sporting Lisbon.

In fact, Graeme Bailey reported today that Tottenham are planning to offer Porro a new long-term deal in 2025, despite him currently being under contract until 2028.

Unlikely to let such an important player go

Transfer speculation occurs with all talented footballers, but the claim that Porro’s exit is ‘very likely’ at this stage, feels little more than an assumption that Tottenham will inherently bend to Real Madrid’s will. If anything, Tottenham have shown a tendency to hold on to players possibly longer than they should and refuse to accommodate for less than their valuation.

Pedro Porro is receiving the praise many will believe he richly deserves after an incredible transformation under Postecoglou. While some use the number of goals Tottenham concede collectively as a means to devalue their individual defender, Porro is instrumental in how they build out their possession game from defence. His bravery in possession is quintessential of Postecoglou’s footballing philosophy and his value to this project at Tottenham could well be higher than what Real Madrid may be willing to offer.

Suggestions that it is ‘very likely’ Tottenham will let another of their star players move to Real Madrid, seem to be distinctly premature.

Tottenham Hotspur have launched a bid to sign 17-year-old St Patrick’s Athletic striker, Mason Melia, whose impressive performances in the League of Ireland have caught the eye of a number of Premier League teams.

Getting to know Mason Melia

Mason Melia is one of the Republic of Ireland’s most promising prospects. He was only 15 when he made his first appearance for St Patrick’s Athletic, coming off the bench to score a screamer, which made him the club’s youngest-ever goalscorer (Irish Independent).

Melia showed his quality in his first season playing senior football, with two goals and one assist in 10 league appearances, and he only started one of those matches.

He has taken advantage of his increased game time this season, scoring six goals in 14 starts, while he made a further 17 appearances off the bench for St Pats, who are four points off league leaders, Shelbourne (Transfer Markt).

It is not just at club level where Melia has learned to thrive. Two years ago, he helped the Republic of Ireland win the under-16 Victory Shield, while last year he pitched in with two goals and two assists as his country reached the quarter-final of the under-17s Euros.

Tottenham make a bid for Mason Melia

Irish journalist, Conor McEvoy, reveals that Spurs have made a bid for Melia, with his asking price sitting at one million euros. The bid has not yet been accepted, despite some reports stating otherwise.

Although Melia cannot leave St Pats until he turns 18 next September, up to six Premier League clubs are reportedly looking to sign him, including North London rivals, Arsenal (Irish Mirror).

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It is no surprise the youngster is in demand, as he has received praise from his supporters and teammates alike. St Pats striker, Aida Keena, heaped praise on Melia last month.

Speaking to the Irish Independent, he said: “When I was 16 I was in the St Pats U-19s, so it’s brilliant to see him [Melia] in the first team at 16. He knows how good he is and how good he can be, he has a good head on his shoulders.

“He’s playing men’s football, and it’s not just his goals, his overall game is getting better and better. I am there to give him any advice he needs but he doesn’t need much, it will be me asking him for advice now.”

Another young signing for Postecoglou

Ange Postecoglou is no stranger to signing young players, with Dominic Solanke being the only player he signed in the summer older than 20 (Transfer Markt).

But in the centre forward position, there is less excitement surrounding the younger players than in other positions. Alejo Veliz has failed to make an impact since joining Spurs, spending most of his time on loan at other clubs. And while Dane Scarlett and Will Lankshear have both shown some promise, there is no harm in signing another young striker.

Many forwards in the past, such as Melia’s fellow countryman, Troy Parrott, have failed to break through at Tottenham, but there is always the chance the club end up developing someone like Harry Kane. And at around a million euros, signing Melia is very low risk and would be an exciting move if Spurs can get the deal done.

Tottenham Hotspur’s George Feeney is emerging as one of the most exciting young prospects in English football, with his natural talent and footballing pedigree marking him as a player to watch in the coming years. Now, he has been selected in The Guardian’s list of next-gen starlets.

A rising star from Northern Ireland

Feeney’s journey to Tottenham began in Belfast, where his performances for Glentoran quickly set him apart as a footballer with immense potential. At just 15, Feeney made headlines by becoming Glentoran’s youngest-ever goalscorer, an achievement that drew attention from Premier League scouts.

Tottenham Hotspur, known for their successful academy, ultimately secured his signature in July 2024, and since his move to North London, Feeney’s development has been eagerly followed.

His early success at Glentoran, where he made 10 senior appearances, underscored his maturity and technical ability, marking him as one of the brightest prospects in Northern Ireland.

Although he represented Northern Ireland at youth level for the U16 and U17 sides, the young striker more recently switched his allegiance to Wales in 2024. When has a player from Wales ever broken through at Tottenham?

George Feeney named in The Guardian’s next-gen list

The Guardian name a Premier League next-gen list every year, picking one teenager from each club in the top division to keep an eye on. This year, Tottenham’s entrant is George Feeney.

The Guardian wrote: “There was a reason why the Belfast Telegraph described Feeney as a ‘teenage sensation’, and Tottenham were delighted when they won the race for his signature towards the end of last season, beating off competition from a host of Premier League rivals.

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“Listed at 5ft 8in, Feeney is known for his technical gifts and assurance on the ball.”

Since arriving at Tottenham in July, Feeney has not only had to adapt to a new level of competition but has also embraced a positional change on the pitch. Previously a centre-forward at Glentoran, Spurs have shifted him into a central attacking midfield role in their under-18s, highlighting his versatility and tactical intelligence.

This new role has allowed Feeney to display a broader range of his talents, showcasing his technical gifts, vision, and decision-making abilities.

At 5ft 8, Feeney may not be the most physically imposing player, but his intelligence and vision on the pitch more than make up for it. As he continues to develop within Tottenham’s youth academy, his adaptability and skill in different attacking roles suggest that he could become a crucial player for the club’s future.

Football heritage: a family of international talent

Adding to his intrigue, George Feeney is not just another promising young player—he is part of a footballing dynasty. The Guardian wrote: “His father, Warren, won 46 caps for Northern Ireland while his grandfather, Warren Sr, also played for the country. Feeney’s great-grandfather, Jimmy, played twice for Ireland.”

This rich lineage has provided Feeney with a unique legacy to build upon, but it also adds a weight of expectation as he seeks to carve out his own identity in football.

Now, as he continues to navigate the early stages of his career, George Feeney is poised to become one of Tottenham’s standout youth prospects. His technical ability, versatility, and footballing pedigree mark him as a player to watch, and fans of both Spurs and Northern Ireland will be keeping a close eye on his development in the years to come.

Tottenham Hotspur are making big plans regarding Pedro Porro after learning about Real Madrid’s interest in the right-back.

Pedro Porro on Real Madrid’s radar

It has emerged over recent weeks that Los Blancos have been impressed by Porro’s performances for Spurs and are considering making him the long-term heir to Dani Carvajal at right-back (CaughtOffside).

The 24-year-old’s impressive showing for Spain in the Nations League on Tuesday is only likely to have strengthened the La Liga giants’ resolve to sign the defender.

However, it has now emerged that Tottenham are making plans to stop the Spanish giants from swooping for their star man.

Spurs set to take steps to keep Porro

TBR Football now report that Ange Postecoglou’s side are ‘aware’ of the ‘growing interest’ in Porro, particularly from Madrid.

The report says that the North London club are ‘very happy’ with the former Sporting Lisbon man’s performances and are not surprised that he is on the radar of Europe’s biggest clubs.

It is revealed that even though Porro’s current deal runs until 2028, Tottenham are already making plans to offer the player a new long-term contract in the new year.

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Madrid also looking at other options

Spurs do not have to panic about Carlo Ancelotti’s men swopping for Porro just yet as TBR Football reveal that the Tottenham man is far from the only right-back on their radar.

The reigning European champions are allegedly also tracking the likes of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Reece James, Jeremie Frimpong and Juanlu ahead of the January window.

It is explained that Madrid are currently ‘doing their homework’ on these options, which suggests that they have not settled on a number one target just yet.

You would not blame Ange Postecoglou for feeling the heat at Spurs right now, but the manager insists this challenge is no more severe than the ones he’s experienced in the past at Celtic.

Pundits are turning on Ange Postecoglou

While pundits and neutrals throughout the game adored Ange Postecoglou in his early days at Spurs and praised his bold tactical approach to football, it seems the tide is turning of late.

Postecoglou has repeatedly been described as naive and impractical for refusing to change his methods and his style of play to a more reserved setup in certain circumstances.

The 3-2 defeat against Brighton before the international break feels like a real turning point for many in the media, who insist Postecoglou is to blame for Tottenham’s downfall.

Celtic job brought massive pressure

Postecoglou is not about to crumble under the pressure, though. In fact, he’s not even sure the Spurs job is the most intense he has taken in his career.

Speaking to Optus Sport, Postecoglou explained how difficult the Celtic job was and how it compares to coaching in the Premier League.

He said: “The challenge is the competition – you’re playing against the best in the world. The demands of that are pretty dramatic in terms of where I’ve come from in terms of starting my journey. This club has its own unique challenges for sure. Are they more difficult than others? I don’t know.

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“When I was at Celtic I was expected to win. If you lose one game it’s a major problem and not many can cope with that.”

Success will come to Spurs

A lot has been made of the fact that Spurs have not won a trophy for 16 years, and Postecoglou has been very vocal about his belief that he can end that drought.

In the interview, he added: “It’s just a different challenge for sure. I get why people would say it’s the level and the scrutiny is the reason why you’re not having success – I don’t believe that. I believe we will have success and there’s nothing here that makes me think that is insurmountable.”