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Axed Robbo hands in transfer request
Simon Johnson, Evening Standard21.01.08
Tottenham goalkeeper Paul Robinson has handed in a transfer request but has been told he will have to wait until the summer before he can leave White Hart Lane.
His decision comes as a blow ahead of tomorrow night's Carling Cup semi-final second leg with Arsenal but manager Juande Ramos has, at least, been boosted by Jermain Defoe signalling that he is finally ready to sign a new deal at the club.
Robinson, 28, has been left out of the side for the last four games in favour of Radek Cerny and there were reports that he told the club he wanted a move after being dropped for the first leg against Arsenal two weeks ago.
This was denied but when he was again on the bench for the trip to Chelsea nine days ago, Robinson decided to act and asked for a transfer.
Manchester City have been monitoring his situation this month, yet Spurs will not sell until they find a replacement and that is proving difficult.
They have sounded out a number of targets including Ajax stopper Maarten Stekelenburg - but the Dutch side have said none of their players will be sold in January.
Defoe is close to signing a two-year contract extension after being made captain in the 2-0 win over Sunderland.
The striker, whose current deal runs out in 2009, is adamant he wants to stay despite being warned about his behaviour in training.
He said: "People say things when they are upset. The gaffer pulled me up the next day and said he didn't mean it. He was honest with me and said 'I want you to stay here'."
Tottenham are also being linked with a move for Brazilian Gilberto from Hertha Berlin, who can play in midfield and at left-back.
Reader views (2)
Even though his form since the world cup has been well below par I still feel sad at Robbo's slow demise. He was part of the new Tottenham over the last 3 years and really was loved by the fans so this is a real shame. I hope he thinks more about his decision and sorts himself out as having an English keeper at Spurs has always been good and we know he has it in him! Still though if he is not prepared to graft for a place then he is not committed enough to a club that took him to its heart.
- Stuart Mclaney, London UK
Typical, obviously he was Martin Jol's favourite player who was always guaranteed a starting place without any competition. Just like Ian Walker when he was dropped he wanted to leave and look what happened to him!
Robbo obviously you don't want to fight for your place.
- Adrian Johnson, London,UK
