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4CONTENTSTHFCFront cover: Tottenham Hotspur Stadium under the floodlights on a special European night here last time out08.11.25PREMIER LEAGUESPURS VS MANCHESTER UNITEDFOOTBALL LEAGUE:1950/51, 1960/61FOOTBALL LEAGUE CUP:1971, 1973, 1999, 2008FA CUP:1901, 1921, 1961, 1962, 1967, 1981, 1982, 1991UEFA CUP:1972, 1984UEFA EUROPA LEAGUE WINNERS2025EUROPEAN CUP WINNERS' CUP:1963FOOTBALL LEAGUE DIVISION TWO:1919/20, 1949/50CHARITY SHIELD:1920/21, 1951/52, 1961/62, 1962/63, 1967/68 (joint), 1981/82(joint), 1991/92(joint)
THFCTOTTENHAM HOTSPUR FOOTBALL AND ATHLETIC CO. LTD, REG. OFFICE: LILYWHITE HOUSE, 782 HIGH ROAD, LONDON, N17 0BXNon-Executive Chairman: Peter CharringtonChief Executive Officer: Vinai VenkateshamOperations and Finance Director: Matthew CollecottLead Independent Director: Jonathan TurnerHead Coach: Thomas FrankFirst Team Assistant Coaches: Justin Cochrane, Andreas Georgson, Matt WellsHead of Performance & First Team Assistant Coach: Chris HaslamFirst Team Individual Development Coach: Cameron CampbellFirst Team Goalkeeper Coach: Fabian OtteSpurs Hotline: 0344 499 5000Textphone Service for Deaf or Hard of Hearing: 020 8365 5194Email: [email protected] PROGRAMMEHead of Publications: Jon RaynerContributors: John Chambers,Rob Daly, John Fennelly, Andy Greeves, Will Holderness, Paul Miles, Billy Shaw, Cameron ScottREACH SPORT: Content Sales Director: Fergus McKennaHead of Commercial Partnerships: David ScrippsCommissioning Editor: Clare FitzsimonsOperations Manager:Nick MoretonCommissioning Editor, Sport & General Interest: Simon MonkDesigner: Tom RogersMarketing & Communications Manager: Claire Brown Photography: Shutterstock, THFC, Alamy, Mirrorpix, Getty ImagesPrinted by: BishopsPublished byFor matchday programme subscriptions, email:[email protected] Coach Thomas Frank wants to keep our winning momentum going after a free-scoring victory in midweekEverything you need to know about Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United squad, with profiles, past encounters and moreExclusive interview with Brennan Johnson, who’ll never forget our last encounter with Manchester UnitedPedro Mendes recalls his time in north London and a ‘goal’ that wasn’t given against today’s opponents
6THFCTo win 4-0 in the Champions League is not an easy thing to do, however our intensity, tempo and bravery on the ball was fantastic and it was much more like the Tottenham Hotspur we want to be.You – our fans – played an important part, too. From the rendition of Can’t Smile Without You, right through to the final whistle and beyond, your support was fantastic and I’m glad we could send you home with a smile on your face.You got behind us and drove us on throughout and the noise after Micky van de Ven scored our third gave me goosebumps.And what a goal that was. I can’t remember seeing many better during my career – especially from a centre-back. The pace, desire and execution – it was magnificent. Micky is a special player and, in THOMASI was delighted with all aspects of our performance on Tuesday night FRANKagainst FC Copenhagen.
THFC“YOUR SUPPORT WAS FANTASTIC AND I’M GLAD WE COULD SEND YOU HOME WITH A SMILE ON YOUR FACE”my opinion, there isn’t another defender in world football who could have scored that goal.It wasn’t just Micky who excelled on Tuesday, though. I thought the whole team performed well and I was particularly pleased with how we responded to going down to 10 men midway through the second half.The win has left us in a strong position in the league phase of the Champions League and sees us as one of only five teams to remain unbeaten after four fixtures.Today we turn our attention back to the Premier League and it is important that we follow up Tuesday’s performance and result with another good showing against Manchester United today.Ruben Amorim endured a difficult start to life at Old Trafford, however his side is on an impressive run of form and are unbeaten in their last four games. They are full of experience and quality and will definitely test us. We need to be ready and it’s a challenge we are relishing as we look to go into the international break on a high.Finally, ahead of Tuesday’s Remembrance Day, we will this afternoon pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives in service to their country, while also showing our support for the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal.Members of our Armed Forces Spurs Official Supporters’ Club will lay poppy wreaths on the pitch before kick-off, which will be followed by a period of silence during which The Last Post will be played, where we will pay our respects to the brave men, women and their families who sacrificed - and continue to sacrifice - everything for our future.
8THFCNAME CHECK…keane• We completed a Premier League double over United last season and the last time we won three consecutive league games against them was in 1959/60.• We have won both of our 12.30pm kick-offs so far this season, beating Manchester City (2-0) and Leeds United (2-1) away from home.• Each of our last 12Premier League goals against United have all been scored by different players (Maddison, Johnson, Kulusevski, Solanke, Richarlison, Bentancur, Sarr, Martinez (og), Porro, Son, Kane, Maguire (og)• United are winless in their last seven meetings with us in all competitions (D2 L5), losing each of the last four.• Only Liverpool (156) have had more shots in the Premier League this season than United (153) and no side has had more shots on target than they have (54).KEANE, ROBBIEA modern-day Spurs great who scored 122 goals in 306 appearances in Lilywhite and lifted the League Cup in 2008. The Republic of Ireland’s most capped player (146) and top scorer (68) of all-time, he also played for the likes of Wolves, Coventry, Inter, Leeds United and Liverpool.Setting the scene for this afternoon’s Premier League clash with Man UnitedOpposing players who share a surnameMATCIN FOCUS FIVE FACTS Manchester United are on their joint-best run under manager Ruben Amorim, although we are probably one of the last teams they would want to face given their recent form against us.It may only be four Premier League games unbeaten (W3 D1) for the Red Devils, but that’s seen us solid progress for Amorim and his players, who have struggled with inconsistency since his arrival from Sporting a year ago this month.We go into today’s game level on 17 points each, but we certainly hold the upperhand when it comes to recent games between the sides, winning all four of our meetings last season including that glory night in the Europa League Final in Bilbao.Our record against United in the early years of the Premier League was poor but, in the last 10 years, this is a much more even fixture with Spurs winning eight times, United nine and three draws since the start of 2015/16. In fact, United are on their longest-ever winless run against us (seven matches in all competitions) and we’ll be looking to extend that this afternoon.KEANE, ROYArguably the greatest midfielder in Premier League history who featured 480 times for United, scoring 51 goals. Integral to their 1999 Treble-winning season, he won seven Premier League titles and is the joint-most decorated Irish footballer of all time alongside Denis Irwin and Ronnie Whelan (19 trophies).
THFChead -to- hea dOurselves and Manchester United had contrasting fortunes over this weekend in 1992 and our seasons would end quite differently too.In what was the inaugural season of the newly-formed Premiership, we’d enjoyed a 2-0 home win over Liverpool on Halloween and followed that up with another impressive 2-0 win at Blackburn Rovers on 7 November where – under the stewardship of First Team Coach Doug Livermore - David Howells and a Teddy Sheringham penalty saw us to victory.Alex Ferguson’s United, on the other hand, had just lost at home to Wimbledon when DEJAN KULUSEVSKI AND MATTHIJS DE LIGTJUVENTUSFor the best part of two years between 2020-22, Dejan Kulusevski and Matthijs De Ligt were teammates in Italy with Juventus. The pair featured in 53 games together for the Old Lady including Champions League matches and both started Juve’s Coppa Italia Final win over Atalanta in May 2021, with Deki on target in their 2-1 victory.GAMES PLAYED: 66SPURS WINS: 13UNITED WINS: 39DRAWS: 14SPURS GOALS: 69UNITED GOALS: 110Players who featured together elsewhere in their careersHow today’s teams match up in the Premier Leagueteam matesTHIS WEEK IN…1992they travelled to Aston Villa on 7 November and were beaten by a Dalian Atkinson goal. But the Red Devils would have the last laugh as they ended 26 years without a League title win by lifting the Premiership trophy the following May, while we finished in eighth.
1 0THFC © Copyright 2025 Hewlett Packard Enterprise Development LP Greatness starts with ambition—the drive to go further. HPE turns passioninto performance on the pitch and beyond.Unlock ambition.AT GREATNESS
THFCRob Daly, official club commentator, presenter and pundit, offers his expert analysis and discusses some of the key talking points ahead of today’s game.Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-3 always feels under scrutiny, but Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo have had a swift impact. The recent win over Liverpool was huge, not only in terms of approach, but a display of character too.SETTLING IN SESKOManchester United focused their summer activity on upgrading their attack, including the signing of RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko. His link-up looks an upgrade on Rasmus Hojlund’s – dropping to use his 6ft 5ins frame to protect the ball before bringing Cunha and Mbeumo into play.The Slovenian varies things too with his rapid pace, looking to get in behind, while he’s built up a reputation for fierce shots and acrobatic efforts – however he’s been limited to two close range goals so far against Brentford and Sunderland.Sesko also struggled to impact last week’s 2-2 draw against Nottingham Forest with Murillo and Nikola Milenkovic playing very physical with the striker, perhaps something Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven could recreate today.PROVEN PREMIER LEAGUE QUALITYBehind Sesko, United added two of the league’s top scoring forwards from last season –Mbeumo (20 goals) and Cunha (15 goals).Both collect the ball from the striker and are extremely effective at making driving, penetrative runs centrally through the pitch.Mbeumo, a former Thomas Frank player, has elevated United’s attack already adding five goals, while Cunha has also played as the striker, which he’s done to good effect when required, showing real swagger in a United shirt and even dropping to near his own box to collect possession.Fundamentally, with more traditional wingers out of the door like Garnacho, Antony, Sancho and Rashford, United now have forwards of the profile Amorim wants offensively and defensively.THE DIALLO DILEMMAThe new arrivals, along with Mason Mount’s ability to operate behind the striker, means Amad Diallo is at right-wing back, a position he occupied last season despite playing in the front three during the Europa League Final.When United attack, Diallo is a threat bombing forward down that side, building a great understanding with Mbeumo.The pair linked up for a goal at Liverpool and impressed during the 4-2 Brighton win, with Amad explaining the fact they both speak French and have a good relationship off the pitch has helped.However, when he’s forward and possession is turned over, United are vulnerable to passes down the right-sided centre-back and even in a settled low block you can see the Ivorian is not the most comfortable defender.Much was made of the fact he was beaten to the ball by Morgan Gibbs-White for a headed goal last week against Forest, but Diallo’s remarkable volley to level the game nine minutes from time showed the worthwhile trade off.SETTLING ON A SIDEBruno Fernandes and Casemiro in midfield don’t feel as exposed this season as the striker drops deep to thicken things up out of possession. Mbeumo and Cunha like to play inside anyway while even Luke Shaw can step into that area of the pitch from left-sided centre-back.In short, United look more compact, and with no European football this season, Amorim can use his midweeks to hone his tactics.In goal, Senne Lammens, signed from Royal Antwerp, looks commanding from crosses and, while Amorim generally wants to play out from the back, they’ve had success going direct from their goalkeeper.Arne Slot acknowledged it was a major factor in Liverpool’s recent loss to today’s visitors, while only Wolves (792) have played more long passes this season than Manchester United (770) – something for Spurs’ centre-backs to deal with.THE DALY BRIEF
THFC1 2Micky van de Ven scored a sensational solo goal as we brushed off the second-half dismissal of Brennan Johnson to produce a wonderful victory over FC Copenhagen. The Dutch defender's strike was reminiscent of our former forward Heung-Min Son's Puskas Award winner in 2019 – picking the ball up outside his own area before racing the entire length of the pitch to score.We were already 2-0 up and down to 10 men at that stage after Johnson and Wilson Odobert had both scored their first-ever Champions League goals, only for Johnson to receive a straight red card in the 57th minute after a VAR review.That could have led to a nervy ending, but van de Ven had other ideas with his stunning strike and then, just moments later, substitute Joao Palhinha rounded off a blistering counter-attack to make it 4-0. JOHNSON 19, ODOBERT 51, VAN DE VEN 64, PALHINHA 67.TOTTENHAM HOTSPURVicario, Pedro Porro, Romero (c) (Danso 73), van de Ven, Udogie (Spence 72), Bentancur, Sarr, Johnson, Xavi (Palhinha 61), Odobert (Scarlett 80), Kolo Muani (Richarlison 72).Substitutes (not used): Kinsky, Austin, Rowswell, Kyerematen, Akhamrich.4-2-3-1 61% 146 3 10LINE-UP POSS. SHOTSON TARGET CORNERS FOULS404.11.25 UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
THFCFC COPENHAGENKotarski, Suzuki, Hatzidiakos, Gabriel Pereira (Garananga 72), Lopez, J Larsson (Dadason 46), Lerager (c), Clem, Achouri (Robert 76), Moukoko (Claesson 72), Elyounoussi (Cornelius 72). Substitutes (not used): Runarsson, Buur, Madsen, Zague. 4-4-2 1239%4 6 LINE-UP POSS. SHOTSON TARGET CORNERS FOULS0TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR STADIUM REFEREE: ERIK LAMBRECHT
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THFCHE WON IT IN BILBAOtaste for it now. We want to keep doing it.”That taste for more has become something of a mantra within the group since lifting our first trophy in 17 years. The Europa League triumph seen as a breakthrough achievement, but not a destination.Now into his third season in north London since his summer deadline day move from In our first meeting with Manchester United since the Europa League Final, we spoke to match-winner Brennan Johnson on the thirst for more, his century for Spurs and what he expects from today’s Premier League lunchtime kick-off…Words by Will Holdernessew matches evoke such precious memories for Spurs fans as this one – and for Brennan Johnson it is no different.The 24-year-old has faced Manchester United more than any other opponent during his career and amongst those 10 contests sits one defining moment that etched his name into the Club’s history.With European glory on the line, it was Brennan’s glancing finish that provided the breakthrough in Bilbao and, crucially, the winner that settled the UEFA Europa League Final against the Red Devils back in May.That famous goal cemented his place as last season’s top scorer with 18 and in the hearts of our supporters. For the Welshman, it was a strike that meant everything to him as a Spurs player.“So far, that’s the number one,” admits Brennan, unsurprisingly, when asked to pick his favourite moment across his 101 appearances in our colours. “Hopefully we can top that or match it with some more trophies because I feel like we’ve got the F Nottingham Forest in 2023, the forward has been one of our more important attacking players since with only the now-departed Spurs legend Heung-Min Son outscoring him in that time.Reaching his Spurs century this term stands as a testament to his consistency and commitment in a spell that has seen him contribute 27 goals and 18 assists in all competitions.
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THFCEnding his maiden campaign as our joint-top creator with 10 assists in the league, the start of his second season brought its fair share of challenges with Brennan taking the personal decision to deactivate his socials to focus on things inside his control.The results were remarkable. After opening his 2024/25 account against Coventry City, he went on to score in six consecutive competitive games – including at Old Trafford in our 3-0 Premier League win in September 2024 – and finishing off with the fitting 18th at Estadio de San Mames.If European glory and personal growth define his current chapter, every appearance, goal and lesson are all part of a journey that he’s determined to keep building here.“Really, really special,” he reflects. “It’s a big honour to play 100 games for such a great club. “It’s been a dream, honestly. Some great memories along the way, some tough times, but I wouldn’t swap it for the world. Hopefully there are many more to come.”With our success on the continent securing qualification to this season’s UEFA Champions League, European nights have brought another layer of excitement and his standout moment of the current campaign.After making his Champions League debut against Villarreal, Brennan has featured in all four League Phase fixtures to date and most recently opened his UCL account with the first from the angle in our 4-0 win over FC Copenhagen in midweek. A subsequent red card was a frustrating moment for him, but ultimately it didn’t detract from the evening overall.“Yeah, incredible,” he says, reflecting on his maiden goal in the competition. “As soon as we got into the Champions League, it was something I wanted to do - something I wanted to achieve. Playing in it and being able to experience that was a dream come true to be honest.“I thought it was a good game. We dominated the whole game, got some goals, and found some rhythm in our play. Overall, it was a good night — and a clean sheet as well.”Our number 22 was quick to shine a light on others, too - particularly his defensive teammate, Micky van de Ven, whose marauding run and composed finish for our third earned widespread acclaim and drew parallels with Sonny’s Puskas Award-winner against Burnley in 2019. “IT’S BEEN A DREAM, HONESTLY. SOME GREAT MEMORIES ALONG THE WAY, SOME TOUGH TIMES, BUT I WOULDN’T SWAP IT FOR THE WORLD”
2 0THFCwhere the performances haven’t been at the level we want, but we’re only a handful of games into a new manager - we didn’t expect every game to be bang on.“It’s just about looking back at the games that didn’t go too well and trying to cut out the sloppy play and bad results as much as we can.“We know we can’t win every single game, but it’s about trying to perform as well as possible — and today’s another opportunity to do that.”Next up comes another stern Premier League test as Ruben Amorim’s side travel to N17 seeking revenge in the first meeting since that fateful spring night in Spain.In a contest that holds extra meaning for the Johnson family – with his father, David, a product of “Micky’s incredible,” he adds. “I don’t think he needs me to tell him too much, but he’s such an incredible player. “You don’t see many centrebacks doing that! He’s a real one-on-one player, so gifted and with a unique playing style. To go all the way and then keep a cool head to finish like that was special. Massive congrats to him.”With Thomas Frank taking charge over the summer, it’s been a season of transition as the team continues to evolve under our Head Coach with five wins, two draws and three defeats to sit sixth in the Premier League, a fourth-round exit in the Carabao Cup yet an unbeaten start in Europe.On a personal level, Brennan picked up where he left off by finding the net in consecutive starts in our opening two Premier League fixtures and has started eight times – bagging all four of his goals in those – across his 16 appearances in all competitions this term and he is embracing the growing familiarity with Thomas’ system.“It’s been good,” explains the Wales international. “New style, new ideas, and something all the lads are getting behind.“There have been moments United’s academy before forging his own career path which included a longest stint at Forest – Brennan prepares to face his dad’s old club once again and is expecting a different sort of challenge this time around.“It’s always a big game,” Brennan begins, previewing another high-energy encounter at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.“A real difficult game. They’ve started to find their form now and been on a good run. They’ve got some great players, signed some real quality as well, so it’s going to be a different challenge to last season.“It’ll probably be a tougher challenge, but we’ve just got to give it everything. We’re at home, and we’ve got to play to a level that can get us three points.”“WE KNOW WE CAN’T WIN EVERY SINGLE GAME, BUT IT’S ABOUT TRYING TO PERFORM AS WELL AS POSSIBLE”
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2 3THFCWe were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of our former Scottish defender Willie Young, who died at the age of 73 on 31 October.Joining us from Aberdeen in September 1975, the commanding centre-half made his debut under manager Terry Neill in a 1-1 draw at Leeds United on 20 September that year to become our Legacy Number 499 and would go on to feature in all of our 43 remaining matches that season. He also scored three goals in 1975/76, his first coming at White Hart Lane in a 2-1 win over Wolves in the November.The following season, he was virtually ever-present during the first half of the campaign and netted in an eventful 2-2 draw with Arsenal in N17 on 27 December 1976. However, that turned out to be one of his last games for us during a difficult season and he became one of the few players and loved a tackle, he spent over six years with the Dons and had scored 14 goals in 188 appearances when he headed south to White Hart Lane.By the time he left us for the red half of north London, he had featured 64 times in Lilywhite with four goals to his name, while he quickly became a favourite at Highbury. He played in three successive FA Cup Finals between 1978 and 1980, collecting a winners’ medal in 1979.After 237 appearances and 19 goals for the Gunners, he spent two seasons with Nottingham Forest before later spells with Norwich City, Brighton and Hove Albion (loan) and Darlington. He hung up his boots in November 1984 and spent his retirement in the Nottingham area, where he ran a pub and a cattery.We extend our sincerest condolences to Willie’s family and friends at this sad time.Obituary - Willie Youngto cross the north London divide when he joined the Gunners in March 1977.Born in Heriot near Edinburgh on 25 November 1951, Willie first came to prominence with Aberdeen, who he joined in June 1969. A whole-hearted, enthusiastic defender who was strong in the air WILLIE IN ACTION AGAINST TODAY'S OPPONENTS MANCHESTER UNITED IN JANUARY 1976
2 4THFCON THE CHARGEAlan Brazil bursts through the United defence during our win in May 1983. He would later move to Old Trafford.FULL HOUSEA packed out White Hart Lane watches Ted Ditchburn and Mel Hopkins snuff out a Manchester United attack in September 1954.ALLEN'S DELIGHTPaul Allen celebrates scoring in our impressive 4-0 victory at the Lane in May 1987.
2 5THFCFAREWELL GLENNAn emotional occasion in N17 as Glenn Hoddle waves goodbye to our fans at his last-ever home game in our colours, a 4-0 win over United in May 1987.New for this season, every issue we’ll be bringing you a collection of photos sourced from a deep dive into our Mirrorpix photography archive, most of which have never been seen before. This afternoon, we’ve got some fantastic images from previous games against Manchester United…GREAT SCOTAction from our 2-0 Division One win in N17 in May 1983, as Scottish striker Steve Archibald lifts the ball over Gary Bailey to score.
2 6THFCLEGENDS AT THE LANETwo greats of the game – Martin Chivers and Bobby Charlton – in action in the 1-1 draw at the Lane in March 1973.GAZZA'S GOALPaul Gascoigne strikes past Jim Leighton in April 1990, as we enjoyed a 2-1 First Division victory.GILLY UP!More action from the March 1973 draw, as Alan Gilzean gets the better of United defender Martin Buchan.
2 7THFCCOLOUR CODEDA fantastic colour photo from our 5-1 win in October 1965, showing White Hart Lane in all its glory.EURO BATTLEAction from our Cup Winners’ Cup second round clash at the Lane in December 1963, with Bobby Smith celebrating during our 2-0 first leg win.FLYING IN...Cyril Knowles makes a sliding tackle on United’s Willie Morgan during the 1-1 draw in N17 in March 1973.ALL FOR CHARITYJimmy Robertson lets fly as Tony Dunne slides in to block during the 3-3 Charity Shield draw at Old Trafford in August 1967.
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2 9THFCThe Club fordog-loversTottenham Hotspur is the Club for animal-lovers and we use our platform to raise awareness of animal welfare and the importance of preserving nature.For the 2025/26 season we are continuing to feature a ‘Dog of the Match’ at every home game at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Members of Tottenham Hotspaw – our first-ever Official Supporters’ Club for dog lovers – have been posting pictures of their beloved pets on the group’s Facebook page for a chance for them to be featured on the stadium big screens ahead of kick-off and in the matchday programme.A Tottenham Hotspaw membership is free and gives fans access to One Hotspur Moments – a programme of special experiences for supporters and their dogs.This includes the opportunity to take part in fundraising activities and events in support of All Dogs Matter – a charity that works in and around London to transform the lives of unwanted and abandoned dogs.Alongside our ‘Dog of the Match’, we also profile rescue dogs currently up for adoption with All Dogs Matter – the fantastic charity partner of Tottenham Hotspaw - giving fans the chance to provide a forever home so badly needed. This afternoon we are featuring Kathy – a sweet girl that loves her walks. Kathy will need experienced owners who are around for a large part of the day to help her settle in, and a home with no other dogs.For more on All Dogs Matter, and to find out how you could provide a forever home to a rescue dog today, visit: alldogsmatter.co.uk DOG OF THE MATCH!KATHYTEDDYToday’s ‘Dog of the Match’ is Teddy – a three-year-old golden retriever who lives in Hertfordshire with his proud parents Tara and Yuri. He is very energetic and loves to wear his jersey on match days like a true mascot. Away from the pitch, he loves toys, long walks and lots of cuddles!Find out more about Tottenham Hotspaw and how to become a member here.
3 0THFCDuring this period of Remembrance, the Club will honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country and show our support for the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal.Poppy wreaths will be laid and a Remembrance service observed at today’s match by members of our Armed Forces Spurs Official Supporters’ Club, including representatives of the Army, the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force. This will be followed by a period of silence during which The Last Post will be played by a bugler.Our players will also be wearing special edition poppy shirts during today’s match. Fans will be able to bid for signed match-worn poppy shirts from all games via MatchWornShirt, with proceeds going to the Royal British Legion.To find out more about the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal, and to make a donation, please visit britishlegion.org.ukMeet today’s Armed Forces Spurs membersWarrant Officer Class Rob LordJoined the Army in 2002 where he trained to become a Spurs RemembersRecovery Mechanic, deployed to Poland, Canada, Iraq, Afghanistan, Estonia and Cyprus. He has represented the Army at football and is the current manager of the women’s Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers Corps football team. This will be his last Remembrance Parade in service dress before he retires next year.Petty Officer Sam AutyJoined the Royal Navy in 2014 as an Aircraft Engineer, spending much of his deployed time in the Middle East aboard HMS Ocean and HMS Montrose. Comes from a proud line of Spurs supporters, with brother Darren a lifelong season ticket holder.Corporal Georgia Lang Joined the RAF in 2021. Upon graduation of phase 2 police training, posted to RAF Honington on No.1 Tactical Police and Security Squadron. Lifelong Spurs fan, along with everyone in her family, with first home match v Burnley at White Hart Lane in 2009.Corporal Andrew LofthouseJoined the Force in 2010 and served for eight years, travelling the world including to the USA, Canada, India, Cyprus, Switzerland, Belgium and France. His career highlights include being a member of the Fanfare Trumpets for both the Royal Wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton at Westminster Abbey and for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebration at St. Paul’s Cathedral.Warrant Officer Class 2 Brian ConnorEnlisted into the Army in June 1970 and served in the Intelligence Corps stationed in the Far East, Central America, Middle East and Europe, retiring in November 1993. Has supported Spurs since 1960 when he was just eight years old.
THFCSergeant Atta NyantakyiJoined the Army in 2012 as Military Personnel Administrator and has been deployed on operations to Afghanistan, Iran and Poland.Sergeant Karl HyltonJoined the Army in 2008, initially enlisting with the Parachute Regiment. A dedicated and accomplished boxer, he has won three Corps titles, an Army Major Units title and now manages the Royal Logistic Corps Boxing Team. Grew up next to White Hart Lane, where he fondly recalls playing football with his cousins beside his auntie's house.Sergeant Dan MountfordJoined the Army in 2009, trained and serves as an Armourer within the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. Has supported Spurs for 38 years.Sergeant Lee GoddardJoined the RAF as a photographer in 2003, his role has taken him to over 35 countries, several postings in the UK and even a secondment as the Prime Minister’s photographer. Has supported Spurs since the age of five.Corporal Ross JaegerJoined the Army in March 2004, serving across the world including Afghanistan before transferring to the RAF in March 2014. Comes from a family of dedicated Spurs fans.Air Specialist Class 1 Dan ReynoldsonJoined the RAF in 2015 as a Logistic Supplier at RAF Marham.Lieutenant Anna-Marie StanleyJoined the Royal Navy in 2018 as a Weapons Engineer. She has served on HMS Diamond, HMS Queen Elizabeth, then HMS Dragon as the Deputy Head of Weapons Engineering. A lifelong Spurs supporter, she has held a season ticket for 17 years.Chief Petty Officer Medical Technician Glenn LongJoined the Royal Navy in October 2006 as a Medical Assistant. He currently manages the Royal Navy women’s football team and has recently been selected for the Elite Sports Coach Pathway, providing him with the opportunity to coach professionally within the women’s game. Glenn has been a proud Spurs season ticket holder for the past eight years.Petty Officer Sam PayneJoined the Royal Navy in 2008 as a Chef, spending most of his early deployed time in the Gulf & Libya.Warrant Officer Class 2 Michael HyltonJoined the Army in 1980, serving in a variety of posts around the world including aid tasks in Kuwait and Kenya. Born and raised in Tottenham, he enlisted at the Tottenham Army Careers office about 300m from White Hart Lane and has been a lifelong fan.Corporal Kieran BowdenServed seven years as an Intelligence Analyst in the RAF, supporting various operations globally. He has been a Spurs season ticket holder for the past eight years.
3 2THFCYou support us.Let us support you.Speak to someone in confidence today – send a WhatsApp message to07399 928 274to meet a trained professional fromMind in Haringey in the Stadium,or call the Samaritans anytime on 116 123Together Against Suicide
THFC1967 Charity Shield.It was a long punt downfield that bounced over a surprised Alex Stepney and into the net.I don’t think he ever believed me when I told him that I was still at school when I saw it on the telly! But Pat was always valued company, and I enjoyed our many chats over the years.LISTENING INI remember when the club launched our own radio broadcasts to complement our growing web emergence.As I travelled home and away with the team, I was enlisted to provide the ‘expert’ analysis. It didn’t last long - and the fans stuck to the more established commentaries available.Indeed, after a game at United we were informed that we only had one listener – and she was in the States! Hopefully, that was a wind-up! But wonder what she thought of it…THE BESTGeorge Best? He certainly was. We’ll leave it there.Like so many in football, I have always had a great deal of respect and admiration for Sir Alex Ferguson.I first met him in 1980 on the White Hart Lane pitch when the then Aberdeen manager brought Steve Archibald south to sign for us.I also remember writing about Archie’s great pace – as he instantly raced away when the sprinklers came on with typically bad timing!Fergie was good company then and subsequently at the many post-match press conferences I attended, together with ‘Footballer of the Year’ dinners when one of his players was invariably involved.He was there again at Dave Mackay’s funeral in Edinburgh in 2015 when he spoke movingly about his old pal - and what it was like to be tackled by him!BIG PAT’S BIG GOALPat Jennings is always so modest about his wonderful playing career that he would just shrug with a ‘well these things happen’ air whenever anyone mentioned his goal against United in the Former press officer John Fennelly returns with his eclectic memories of today’s opponents collected over 50 years of following Spurs. When Pedro Mendes scored the goal that never was from his own half at United in 2005, manager Martin Jol was understandably fuming.Trying to calm him down ahead of the after match TV and press conferences, I suggested he should opt for a more sanguine attitude with the media as the game was on television and everyone could see that the ball was over the line.That would reflect well on him – and avoid possibly being up before the beak at any subsequent FA reaction should he criticise the referee publicly.Instead, he opted to climb over the arena wall to share a smile with a group of Spurs fans who were serenading him with the ‘he’s got no hair, we don’t care’ anthem! Life with Martin was always a laugh. Happy days.JOLLY JOLTHAT REMINDS ME…
3 4Nestling between Orient’s visit in 1978 and a reserve fixture versus Southampton circa 1934 on our South Stand programme wall, today’s first offering is Manchester United’s rearranged league visit on 13 April 1970.When George Best and Bobby Charlton rolled into town there was always a big crowd, and this was no different, with over 41,000 turning up on a Monday night to witness Alan Gilzean and Martin Chivers afford us a 2-1 victory. The match was originally scheduled for 7 March but was moved to the day before due to Manchester City participating in the 1970 League Cup Final, however, the fixture was postponed due to bad weather.Number 49 of Volume 62 uninspiringly displayed the same front cover design of the previous season. Mike England was captured shooting at Leeds United’s Gary Sprake at a snowbound White Hart Lane with a packed Shelf in the background. Priced at six pence, the 16-page edition was a far cry from today’s glossy graphic designed efforts. A full-page advert beckoned fans to renew their season tickets for the 1970/71 campaign, where Blocks J & K in the centre of the West Stand commanded a seasonal cost of £22!Action photos versus Chelsea, Sheffield Wednesday and Nottingham Forest were showcased and our five meetings with United in 1967/68 were described in ‘Five Epics.’ Jimmy Neighbour was introduced in ‘Young Spur.’ Born in Chingford, the winger was pushing hard for his full debut, that came next season, by starring in our Combination side. There were also the ‘Goal Time’ prizes from the Forest match and a reminder to buy a ticket. A first prize of £50 was on offer; a sum that could buy you two season tickets for next season! I’m sure many of you remember the sellers with their long white coats, they’re as much of our heritage as the peanut sellers!Although a very young Steve Perryman had been a first team mainstay since his September debut versus Sunderland, the former England Schoolboy also appeared for the important Youth team fixtures. Once such occasion was the prestigious FA Youth Cup Final, which an advert on page 8 told us was at White Hart Lane on A new feature for this season, as John Chambers highlights the contents of programmes whose front covers feature on our famous ‘Programme Walls’ within the stadium…Wallto Wall
3 5the coming Saturday. The lads, who also included future superstar Graeme Souness, won the tournament for the first time after a marathon four matches with Coventry City. Congratulations were awarded to Roger Morgan for his England Under-23 debut brace and to Pat and Eleanor Jennings on the birth of their daughter Siobhan. The visit of Manchester United 47 years later was an emotional day, when everyone came together to send off White Hart Lane after 118 years of iconic memories. An incredible unbeaten final home season was perfectly bookended with United being the first-ever top-flight opponents in 1909 and the last on 14 May 2017. Dubbed ‘The Finale,’ Number 28 of Volume 109 was a 124-page commemorative A4 sized programme packed full of memories with the £10 proceeds heading to the Tottenham Tribute Trust. The stylish front cover showed two merging action shots from the present and yesteryear with a brilliant commemorative logo in the middle displaying our cockerel and ball perched on top of the badge that adorned the stadium. The words were changed from THFC to The Lane and either side was the elaborate metal work from the iconic ‘Bill Nicholson Gates,’ as they’ve become known.Four fantastic two-page spreads featured ‘The Trophy Years’ where the four times we had won a trophy on our own ground was highlighted. The articles included wonderful memories of our League Championship triumphs in 1951 and 1961 as well as our two UEFA Cup wins in 1972 and 1984. The great Jimmy Greaves was interviewed in ‘Legends of The Lane,’ where he disclosed he was delighted to have joined the ‘Mighty Spurs,’ as he put it, after an unhappy short spell in Milan. He a gave us some behind-the-scenes information, claiming that they invariably played five-a-side in the ball court until Dave Mackay’s team won! His best memory was his wonder goal versus today’s opponents in 1965 when he left everyone in his wake in the 5-1 memorable win. He also mentioned his pre-match routine started with the tea ladies to find out all the gossip from the previous week!‘Moments That Shaped The Lane’ was a nostalgic look at key moments throughout our history over many pages, starting with the very first prestigious opening friendly versus Notts County in 1899. Legendary captain Steve Perryman was also interviewed in ‘Steve’s Special Place,’ saying, “I joined in 1967 and the history was all around you, hanging in the air.” Steve’s abiding memory was his magnificent two-goal performance versus AC Milan, but his team memory was the marvellous 4-2 win over Leeds that staved off relegation. He was also asked what message he’d like to relay to the fans; his response was cracking: “First of all, congratulations on your choice of club.” What a guy!
3 8THFCSIGN UP NOWUp for grabs this month:Hospitality experience for 2 at Spurs v Liverpool on 20 December thMicky van de Ven signed shirtElite session for 4 at F1® DRIVEIn aid ofWIN HOSPITALITY AT SPURS VS LIVERPOOL
THFCDom and Danny visited ahead of this year’s annual Movember campaign as it highlights Movember Ahead of the Game to put youth mental health centre stage.Cristian Da Silva, Foundation coach, said: “Sport has always been a powerful tool for building confidence, connection and community among young people. But now more than ever, it plays a vital role in helping boys and young men look after their mental wellbeing.Having role models like Dom and Danny speak so openly during our workshop made a huge impact – students left feeling seen, supported and empowered to speak up for themselves and each other.”One in four people will experience a mental health problem each year in England – equating to over 54,000 people just in the London Borough of Haringey, Dominic Solanke teamed up with Tottenham Hotspur Foundation to highlight the importance of mental health during a workshop for local students.The Foundation was delivering the Movember Ahead of the Game programme that aims to build mental resilience among young people. Dom took part in an interactive workshop and Q&A session at Lea Valley Academy in Enfield, alongside content creator and lifelong Spurs fan Danny Aarons.Dom said: “The workshop put on by Spurs Foundation was fantastic. It was so good to see the kids learning about such an important topic as no doubt later in life some of them will have their own struggles, as many of us adults do.“The stat from Movember is that 75 per cent of mental health disorders will have emerged by the age of 24, so it’s important they know there’s always someone to talk to and that a lot of people do struggle.”Danny added: “It was such a good day – I was locked in and felt like one of the kids! I loved it and I hope the young people loved it, too.“You always get told to reach out for help, but the important piece that we were taught today was about the importance of continuing to check in afterwards.”BUILDING MENTAL RESILIENCE FOR YOUNG PEOPLEwhere Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is located.We are proud to offer Movember Ahead of the Game as part of a growing number of initiatives supporting mental health.In addition to the groundbreaking early-intervention programme, the Foundation delivers Advantage Mentoring’s Talking Tactics programme, a free six months of mentorship for local young people aged 11-21, helping them to boost confidence and develop lifelong skills.Referrals can be made by trusted adults such as parents, carers or teachers, with NHS screening helping to identify whether the young person’s needs are suitable for the programme.The Foundation is also an active member of the Enfield Suicide Prevention Steering Group, a group that develops strategic plans for suicide prevention, informed by local data and emerging trends.Meanwhile, the Club is supporting the Premier League’s Together Against Suicide initiative – co-created by CEO Vinai Venkatesham – in partnership with local charity Mind in Haringey.Staff from Mind are based at the Stadium for all home Premier League matches during the 2025/26 season, reachable via a text service (WhatsApp 07399 928274) and available to meet confidentially with anyone who requires support on the day.The Club is a supporter of Legend on the Bench, too, a charity set up by former Spurs midfielder Micky Hazard that aims to build a bench in every park in the UK, including a QR code directing people to 24-hour support services – one of these benches resides at Tottenham Community Sports Centre opposite the Stadium.Supported by:
BURNLEYOPPOSITIONBURNLEYOPPOSITIONBURNLEYOPPOSITIONBURNLEYOPPOSITIONTHFC4 0FOUNDED: 1878NICKNAME: The Red DevilsSTADIUM: Old TraffordCAPACITY: 74,310LAST SEASON:Premier League - 15thFA Cup - Fifth roundEFL Cup - Quarter-finalsEuropa League - Runners-upMOST RECENT TROPHY: 2024 FA CupMOST APPEARANCES (ALL-TIME): Ryan Giggs (963)MOST GOALS (ALL-TIME): Wayne Rooney (253)manchester UnitedSENNE LAMMENS07.07.02 GKALTAY BAYINDIR14.04.98 GKRUBEN AMORIMHEAD COACHAmorim took over in November of last season and reached the Europa League final where… well you know the rest! He won the Portuguese league twice with Sporting, and also coached at Casa Pia and Braga.RUBEN AMORIMDOB: 27.01.85NATIONALITY: PORTUGUESEPOSITION: HEAD COACH
BURNLEYOPPOSITIONBURNLEYOPPOSITIONMAN UTDOPPOSITIONBURNLEYOPPOSITIONBURNLEYOPPOSITIONBURNLEYOPPOSITIONTHFCAWAY 25/26DIOGO DALOT18.03.99 DFNOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI14.11.97 DFMATTHIJS DE LIGT12.08.99 DFLISANDRO MARTINEZ18.01.98 DFHOME 25/26United’s famous red shirt features a classic Adidas design that evokes decades-past, while the stylish white away jersey features a ‘Devil trident’ in place of the traditional club crest.KITSclub coloursHARRY MAGUIRE05.03.93 DF
THFC4 2Together Against SuicideYou support us.Let us support you.Speak to someone in confidence today – call Samaritans for free on 116-123 or visitpremierleague.com/togetheragainstsuicide
BURNLEYOPPOSITIONBURNLEYOPPOSITIONBURNLEYOPPOSITIONBURNLEYOPPOSITIONBURNLEYOPPOSITIONTHFC4 3United’s first summer signing joined from Wolves for £62.5m, and opened his Reds goalscoring account against Brighton earlier this month. A Brazilian international, formerly of RB Leipzig, Hertha Berlin and Atletico Madrid. MATHEUS CUNHA27.05.99NATIONALITY: BRAZILIANPOSITION: FWlast time out01.11.25NOTTM FOREST 2-2 MAN UTDPREMIER LEAGUEAmad Diallo’s late volley earned a point for United in a topsy-turvy encounter at the City Ground. The visitors took a first-half lead from a Casemiro header, before being stunned by two second-half goals in quick succession from Morgan Gibbs-White and Nicolo Savona.PATRICK DORGU26.10.04 DFAYDEN HEAVEN22.09.06 DFLUKE SHAW12.07.95 DFLENY YORO13.11.05 DF
BURNLEYOPPOSITIONBURNLEYOPPOSITIONBURNLEYOPPOSITIONBURNLEYOPPOSITIONTHFC4 4MANUEL UGARTE11.04.01 MFScorer of a brilliant late equaliser at Nottingham Forest last time out, the left-footed Ivorian joined in 2021 from Atalanta. Now established in the first team after loans at Rangers and Sunderland.AMAD DIALLO11.07.02NATIONALITY: IVORIANPOSITION: MFBRUNO FERNANDES08.09.94 MFMASON MOUNT10.01.99 MFCASEMIRO23.02.92 MFprevious meeting21.05.25SPURS 1-0 MAN UTDEUROPA LEAGUEBrennan Johnson’s first-half goal was enough to beat United and secure our first trophy in 17 years on a glorious night in Bilbao. Johnson’s deflected effort beat Andre Onana, while we defended brilliantly to keep United out until the end, with a Micky van de Ven goalline clearance from Rasmus Hojlund a crucial highlight.
BURNLEYOPPOSITIONBURNLEYOPPOSITIONMAN UTDOPPOSITIONBURNLEYOPPOSITIONBURNLEYOPPOSITIONTHFC4 5JOSHUA ZIRKZEE22.05.01 FWKOBBIE MAINOO19.04.05 MFMICHAEL CARRICK MIDFIELDERAnother arrival in the summer of 2025, Mbeumo joined from Brentford and already has five goals for his new side. Started at Troyes in France before a highly successful spell with the Bees.BRYAN MBEUMO07.08.99NATIONALITY: CAMEROONIANPOSITION: FWERIC CANTONAFORWARDKnown simply as The King, Eric Cantona conquered English football during a silverware-laden spell at Old Trafford in 1993-1998. Meanwhile stylish midfielder Michael Carrick joined from Spurs in 2006, winning every domestic honour plus the European Cup in 2008.LEGENDpast greatsBENJAMIN SESKO31.05.03 FW
4 6THFCJohn Chambers looks back at previous meetings with Manchester United and picks out Spurs players who have produced heroics and those opponents who have been a thorn in our side!Before they morphed into Manchester United in 1902, the famous Lancashire club spent 24 years as railway side Newton Heath. Long before Old Trafford was built, our first meeting came in N17 in the 1899 FA Cup where prolific centre-forward Bill Joyce earned a draw. The Bank Street return was an entertaining but bruising affair with Kenny Mackay leaving the pitch after a collision but recovered to cancel out Willie Bryant’s opener. In a pulsating first half, Bryant completed his hat-trick before a magnificent Jimmy Hartley strike. With Bryant fast becoming our first Manchester villain, Harry Erentz and James McNaught quelled their former team-mates in the second period. McNaught equalised and Joyce put us ahead before Harry’s brother, Fred Erentz, dislocated his shoulder. Ten men Heath conceded again when Tom Smith secured a famous 5-3 win.Our biggest win over Manchester United was a 6-1 White Hart Lane thrashing in 1932, which we matched in 2020, more of that later. Inspired by Jimmy Brain and Eugene O’Callaghan, United were overrun through sheer pace and power. Known as ‘The Greyhounds’ due to our blistering energetic running, Brain opened the scoring after an almighty scramble before O’Callaghan sprinted away for the second. Two goals just after the interval ended the contest when George Hunt netted after United waited for a David Colquhoun handball. Clearly rattled, Hunt was then fouled for Willie Evans to net the penalty. Bill Ridding pulled one back only for Evans’ cross to sail in for an immediate response. Hunt added a sixth on full time.Some may say Noel Cantwell was the villain for breaking Dave Mackay’s leg when United ended our European Cup Winners’ Cup defence in 1963, however, the injury was caused by Mackay colliding with the big centre-half – Cantwell visited Mackay in hospital to show there were no hard feelings. The real villain was someone who could never be described in such terms - the gentleman footballer, Bobby Charlton. Having won 2-0 at home, we were winning the tie 3-2 overall following Jimmy Greaves’ rare header. Even when Charlton scored on 78 minutes, our 10 men still held the away goals advantage, but Charlton broke our hearts with an archetypical stunner with two minutes remaining.Following Matt Busby’s resignation, United fell into decline leading to relegation in 1974. During this period, we enjoyed one of our finest Old Trafford performances when Martin Peters notched four goals in a memorable 4-1 win in 1972. Having lost our last nine visits we were wary, especially as the ‘Holy Trinity’ of Charlton, Denis Law and George Best were on display. Peters settled the nerves in the 20th minute, running onto a Cyril Knowles throughball after Alex Stepney missed the ball. Four minutes later, Peters turned in Ralph Coates’ mishit shot before converting Jimmy Pearce’s cross at the back post. Charlton reduced the arrears in the second half before Peters netted a fourth with a typical glancing header justifying Bill HEROES &MARTIN PETERS SCORED FOUR AT OLD TRAFFORD
4 7THFCNicholson’s decision to play him up front in Alan Gilzean’s absence.Our former Assistant Coach Joe Jordan played the villain in our famous 1980 FA Cup victory when his misplaced elbow left Milija Aleksic with a broken jaw. After Sammy McIlroy’s penalty wiped out Ossie Ardiles’ 18-yard snapshot in N17, it was a tough assignment at Old Trafford made worse in the 57th minute when Glenn Hoddle replaced the stricken goalkeeper. Until that point, we’d dominated but it was backs to the wall for an hour with Hoddle frustrating United into extra-time. With four minutes remaining a counter-attack conjured in South America won the tie when Ricky Villa picked out Ardiles to curl a beauty beyond Gary Bailey. The team visited hospital afterwards, where Aleksic’s condition was stable after an operation.Following Gary Lineker’s Old Trafford winner in 1989, 23 years passed before another victory at the famous stadium. The day finally arrived in 2012 with left-back for the day, Jan Vertonghen, scoring early following a storming run, however, it was harshly awarded as a Jonny Evans own goal by the Dubious Goal Committee despite being on target. Gareth Bale then skinned Rio Ferdinand for a splendid second on 32 minutes before a crazy threeminute spell after half time. Clint Dempsey scored the winner when he tapped home Bale’s parried shot sandwiched between VILLAINSgoals from Shinji Kagawa and Nani.During the aforementioned hoodoo, we had three points snatched away at the death in 2005 when a goalless encounter looked like being settled by a magnificent speculative 50-yard Pedro Mendes lob that Roy Carroll mishandled over the line. The Irish keeper then clawed the ball out of the goal, but it was clearly a yard over. The only two people that thought it hadn’t crossed the line were referee Mark Clattenburg and linesman Rob Lewis. The ‘ghost goal’ even had Sir Alex Ferguson calling for video technology! We’ve enjoyed some fantastic results over United both home and away over the last 10 years. Three 3-0 victories starting in 2016 when Dele Alli, Toby Alderweireld and Erik Lamela netted late goals in N17 was followed by Harry Kane and Lucas Moura (2) in 2018, giving us our best Old Trafford result since Peters’ triumph. And of course, last season we matched the score in Manchester when Brennan Johnson, Dejan Kulusevski and Dominic Solanke netted – Johnson was also elevated to hero status by netting the 2025 Europa League Final winner. Our 1930s record win was matched by our 2020 vintage when Tanguy Ndombélé, Heung-Min Son (2), Kane (2) and Serge Aurier shocked Old Trafford. BOBBY CHARLTONCLINT DEMPSEY CELEBRATES HIS 2012 WINNER
4 8THFC
THFCIn each matchday programme, we speak to a former Spurs player to look back at their career and get their thoughts on current events in N17. The series continues this afternoon as we catch up with Pedro Mendest was one of the Premier League’s most famous ‘goals that never were’. In the last minute of our match against Manchester United at Old Trafford on 4 January, 2005, Pedro Mendes spotted goalkeeper Roy Carroll on the edge of his penalty area as a loose ball dropped to him just inside the United half. The Portugal international wasted no time in powering a shot at the United goal. Scurrying back towards his goal, Carroll fumbled his catch and the ball briefly ended up around a yard over the goal line before the goalkeeper palmed it away. The majority of Old Trafford was in stunned silence while our supporters celebrated.But bizarrely, play continued. And it was at that moment that our players, supporters and staff realised referee Mark Clattenburg and his assistant Rob Lewis hadn’t seen Mendes’ effort cross the line and the match ended in a goalless draw. Mendes had to be content therefore with just one goal in 30 appearances in his debut season at Spurs in 2004/05 following a move from Porto, where he was a UEFA Champions League winner. He featured in six further matches in our colours in the first half of the 2005/06 campaign before joining Portsmouth in January 2006. He also played for Rangers, Sporting CP and had two spells with Vitória Guimarães at the start and end of his career before retiring from playing in 2012. Hi Pedro. To take you back to that incredible moment and your ‘goal that never was’ at Old Trafford in January 2005. What memories do you have of your strike?As the ball was coming to me, I had a clear image of what was happening in front of me. Pedro MendesOnce a Spur Always a SpurI
5 0THFCI could see that Roy Carroll was on the edge of his penalty area. The ball bounced towards me and I knew it was a great opportunity to have a go. I was able to pull off the shot I wanted… it was a great effort. Sadly, I can only ever call it a ‘great effort’ because obviously the ‘goal’ wasn’t given! Even from your position on the pitch, could you see the ball had gone over the line?I had a good idea that it was over the line. Robbie Keane was further up the field and I could see from his body language and the way he protested afterwards that he’d clearly seen the ball go over the line. But the game went on. When I saw the footage after the game, it was unbelievable. What was the mood like travelling back to London that evening?Overall, I think we played pretty well in the game. Against a top team like Manchester United, there were periods where we had to suffer a little but also periods where we got to play too. Ultimately, it was still ‘job done’. We went to Old Trafford looking for the three points but knowing a draw would still be a good result. So, we happily took the point, although there was obviously the disappointment that it could and should have been the three. It left a slightly bitter taste in the mouth. Luckily, we can also ask you about a goal that did count – a strike in a 5-2 win over Everton at White Hart Lane just three days before that trip to Old Trafford. You must have fond memories of that one?Definitely. It was a part of the season when the team was playing with a lot of confidence and it was a great team performance on the day. There were some really good goals in that match and I was obviously pleased with my goal. One of the great strengths of our team at the time was the forward line with Jermain Defoe, Robbie Keane, Fredi Kanoute and Mido. We were able to change the strikers around and there would always be two on the pitch who you knew were capable of scoring at any moment. Can you describe your goal?The ball came to me on the outside of the box. I brought the ball onto my right foot. The defender came towards me, I was able to set myself and shoot into the top left-hand corner. It was a great feeling seeing the ball hitting the net, with a great atmosphere at White Hart Lane as there always was. Going back to the start of your Spurs career, how did you come to join the club from Porto in the summer of 2004? It was quite a quick move. I was about to return to training when I got a call about the opportunity of joining Spurs. Of course, the Premier League was always a dream for me and Spurs is obviously a massive club. So, I didn’t think twice, I said that I was happy to make the move. I got a call on a Tuesday I think, I travelled to London on the Thursday and I signed after that.What memories do you have of your Spurs debut against Liverpool?I can’t remember too many specifics. What I can remember was the excitement, some nerves… a mixture of emotions for sure. It was special that Liverpool were my first opponents in the Premier League. They had a number of players in their squad I admired, including Steven Gerrard. We had quite a new team, with other players (seven in total) making their debut alongside me like Paul Robinson, Sean Davis and Noureddine Naybet. How do you reflect on your first season at Spurs in 2004/05?The ambition going into the season was to qualify for Europe and we fell just short in the end, missing out by three points. We had a good squad.On a personal level, it was the continuation of quite an amazing personal journey. Just two seasons earlier, I had been playing for my home town club, Vitória Guimarães, the team I grew up supporting – the team in my heart who I always dreamed of playing for. Then the following season, I was winning the Champions League with Porto. And the