Robbo raps Spurs as United bid for
Berba
Paul Robinson may have had other matters on hand last night after
his England blunder but he still found time to launch a blistering
attack on Tottenham's board of directors over the Martin Jol
affair. As Spurs were fighting off renewed Manchester United
interest in their star player, Bulgarian striker Dimitar Berbatov,
Robinson said: "I'm very disappointed with what's been happening at
the club.
"To see how far MJ has taken the club and the strides he has taken,
to then go behind his back to seek other options is very
disappointing because the manager has got the full support of the
players. "It's very difficult for him because of what he has done.
We are 100 per cent behind and we all hope he stays as long as
possible. It's known throughout the club how the players feel. "To
question somebody's job after three games of the season is
ridiculous, especially after what the man has done for the past two
years.
As Robinson spoke, the Spurs board were trying to fend off United's
£21million offer for Berbatov. All offers have been rebuffed so far
and Spurs put a £40m price tag on the 6ft 2in forward. But Ferguson
is determined to add another striker to his squad following Wayne
Rooney's broken foot and specifically wants someone who can add a
taller, physical presence.
Scouts from across Europe were called into United's Carrington
training ground last week for a briefing and Ferguson has started
with Berbatov, who was regarded as one of the Premier League's
outstanding performers last season with 19 goals in all
competitions. United wanted to bring Berbatov to England last year
before his transfer from Bayer Leverkusen to Spurs, who had an
agreement that they would have first call on the player provided
they matched the £10.9m asking price.
Privately, Berbatov is flattered by United's interest and would
like the chance to play for them and test himself further in the
Champions League. However, Spurs, who rejected United's enquiries
about a £17m deal in May, will stand firm. That leaves United
considering their options, while Berbatov, who is struggling to
shake off a groin injury in time to face the champions on Sunday,
may now have to declare a desire to leave White Hart Lane in order
to force the issue.
United have alternatives. They have been offered Newcastle's
Obafemi Martins and know they could buy Nicolas Anelka from Bolton
for £12m. However, they are in danger of being left with nobody as
Anelka's representatives held talks with Portsmouth officials last
night, with the Frenchman keen to sign for Harry Redknapp.
