We've got edge over Spurs in race for Olympic venue, says David Gold

The Hammers revealed their interest in the Stratford stadium in January only for their Premier League rivals to enter the race just before the deadline for bids closed last week.

Spurs' proposal is in conjunction with AEG and on Tuesday the entertainment giant's president, Timothy Leiweke, insisted their offer "is more comercially viable than any other" and added: "We do not back losers."

However, Gold believes West Ham are in pole position because of their East End roots and that, unlike Spurs, they would keep the athletics track.

"There are many reasons we have the edge," the Hammers co-owner said today. "We have it because it's clear we are linking our bid with Newham Council and the local community.

"This isn't about Spurs. It's about West Ham and Newham Council. It would be no problem for us to have temporary facilities on the track during the football season, which could then be removed for the athletics season.

"So we would be honouring our commitment to the 2012 legacy by keeping the athletics facilities. It will be the most stunning stadium in the country."

Spurs issued a statement yesterday insisting their priority is to redevelop White Hart Lane, which has been given planning permission by Haringey Council although still needs the backing of government ministers.

Gold said: "[Spurs chairman] Daniel Levy is a businessman and he will be looking to cover as many options as he can. It's a very business-orientated decision in my view. Besides, I think Tottenham can manage with one stadium. I do not think they need two."

West Ham co-owner Sullivan was more forthright on Spurs' plans yesterday claiming "there will be real problems that could easily lead to civil unrest" if the north London club moved to Newham.

Sullivan was in turn labelled a hypocrite by Leyton Orient chairman Barry Hearn, who claimed his club would suffer huge damage if the Hammers get the stadium. Gold insisted: "David has been in football for 17 years. He has invested a huge sum of money in saving West Ham. Not buying it or taking it over but saving it. The club was on the brink of administration. So David has the right to speak his mind and I would not be one to criticise him."