Record figures for Spurs

Spurs recorded their best figures for turnover and profit, partly due to the partnerships with Mansion and Puma, but also because of Jol's work over the last two seasons.

The Dutchman was credited with getting the club into Europe and in the last campaign they played 21 cup ties on top of the revenue that comes from Premier League games.

There was no reference to Jol in the statement from the club to the Stock Exchange announcing their impressive figures for the 12 months before June 30 this year.

He appeared undermined earlier in the season when Spurs officials, including Kemsley, met Sevilla coach Juande Ramos in Spain. Jose Mourinho was also a reported target when he left Chelsea.

Chairman Daniel Levy has backed Jol publicly but there has been a perception of the current boss simply keeping the seat warm and it is unclear whether Kemsley's departure will strengthen or weaken his position.

"Paul has recently expanded his property business interests in the United States and feels that inevitably his time spent overseas will impact upon his ability to fulfil his role with the club," explained Levy.

Kemsley had been working on plans for a bigger stadium and this remains one of Levy's priorities, as well as new training facilities in Enfield.

"A limited number of potential sites have been identified in the London boroughs of Enfield and Haringey including the expansion possibilities of the existing stadium," Levy added.

"These obviously remain highly sensitive on commercial grounds but we are now working to a timetable that will see us commit to one option during the first half of 2008."